Courtesy Christian Sperka

Christian Sperka captures the bond between mothers and babies in South Africa near Phinda Private Game Reserve.  Did you know that the cheetah is the fastest mammal on land? It can run as fast as 60 – 70 mph over short distances. It can cover 23 feet in four strides when running, but after a chase, the cheetah needs half an hour to catch its breath before it can eat. Sometimes, while the cheetah is resting, another animal may come along and steal its food.

Courtesy Christian Sperka

Did you know that both the white and black rhinoceros are really gray in color? The difference between the two is in the shape of their lips. The black rhino has a pointed, hooked upper lip because it is a browser. The white rhino is a grazer and has a square lip/jaw for eating grass easier – just like a lawn mower!

Courtesy Christian Sperka

“Please don’t make me take my bath,” this baby lion seems to say to its mother. Did you know that the female lioness does all the hunting? The lioness gets the food and the male lion is the first in line to eat! Actually, only male lions have manes, which help protect their throats in battle. The darker the lion’s mane, the older the lion is. However, this same mane is so visible that it would ruin a hunt, so this is why the male lion relies on the lioness for all hunting. It has nothing to do with being lazy. The lion is truly the king!

Courtesy Christian Sperka

Lions can be identified by recording the spots on their muzzle. They are also colorblind. How much do you know about wild animals –  not to be confused with those seen in your local zoo.

Christian is currently in South Africa for his annual trip to Phinda and I can’t wait to see his latest photographs. From birds to the “Big Five,” Christian will be teaching a lucky group of travelers his photographic secrets. Now that’s a great combination – safari + great photographer guide!

 -The Gourmet Review