Look! A Squirrel!

More specifically, an unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus), common to the grasslands of East Africa. Ground squirrels like this live lives of solitude in dry areas (hence the name xerus) eating seeds, pods, and leaves. They burrow into the ground, or, in the case of this fellow, find ready habitation in termite mounds. Underground they are safe from predators like raptors, leopards, and jackals.

Logboat

A traditional East African logboat. An outrigger like this is known locally as a Nagalawah. I spoke with its owner yesterday (his father built it). I learned that this particular craft is about seven years old and hewn from a single mango tree trunk. It was modified with a frame of eucalyptus and mangrove poles lashed together with nylon rope.

The nagalawah is the workboat of the east Indian Ocean with a design tradition that goes back a thousand years or more.

It's low tide on the east coast of Zanzibar right now. This one is not going anywhere soon.

"Deer Beast"

This large antelope is commonly referred to as a hartebeest. The label is odd, rising off the Dutch tongue, and means "deer beast." It was likely given by early European settlers in Africa because of its resemblance to the more familiar creature.

In the local language it is a Kongoni.

The Kongoni is long and large for an antelope. A mature male may stand three feet at the shoulder and weigh 300 pounds.