A positive ramification of Covid restrictions, is the opportunity to take time and explore one’s local flora and fauna. We set out to hike a trail that is part of the Hoover Dam railroad line, built in 1931 to provide a means of getting concrete and supplies needed for construction of the dam.
The trail follows on the path of the original rail line, but the rails are no longer there. It provides gorgeous vistas looking down on Lake Mead and of the rock formations as you pass through five of the original rail tunnels through the rock.
This is one of my favorite images, as the colors reminded me of Monet’s Water Lilies painting.
For many, the concept of a Gorilla conjures up King Kong. While they can be quite intimidating based on their typical size- 200 pounds for the females, and 400 pounds for the males, this short video shares their more ‘domestic’ side.
It was shot in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Somewhat aptly named, because to catch a glimpse of the Mountain Gorilla, you need a permit, a guide and the willingness to slog up the mountain which is at times akin to a rainforest. There are no paths. The Impenetrable Forest floor is typically slippery, often thorn laden, with lots of roots to trip you up. Everyone falls at least a few times- the trick is to not get hurt when you do. Your guide leads you up to where the Gorilla family was last seen. Along the way, lower branches and nettles are cut away with a machete. The trek can be anywhere from a couple to four hours up the mountain before you hear, then come across the Gorillas.
In this video, you will initially see the adult male Mountain Gorilla, called a Silverback because of the silver/white hair down part of his back, relaxing in the grass near his family. Next is the mother cuddling one of the young gorillas. A sibling is seen foraging nearby. Mom then goes off for a snack.
Two of the young brothers (?) take this as an opportunity to get into a brief scrap and then appear to be conspiring. The Silverback then rejoins the family, where the mother is laying down with the young gorillas playing around and on her.
Finally, all pack off with one of the young gorillas hitching a ride on the mother’s back, while everyone follows the Silverback off.
This is an al dente tour (that is, hopefully not too short nor too long to adequately provide a ‘just-right’ taste) of the Italian regions of Tuscany (central Italy) and Lombardy (northern Italy). It begins at the Ligurian Sea west of Pisa, continues up to the magnificent mansion on Isola Bella, north of Milan. Then onto Milan and the Duomo. Next some countryside and wine tasting. Followed by Pisa. Back to the coast for Cinque Terre, some more wine tasting and the countryside around Peccioli.
I hope you enjoy! Looking forward to your comments. Ciao!
Insight - Daum Photography 