BAOBABS!

We are in the lowlands getting close to the coast…

HOME OF THE FOSSA

We ride to Kirindy National Park, a 12,000 hectare park for an overnight. This is where the unusual Fossa resides. The Fossa is a cat-like creature that moves so elegantly. It is the largest mammalian carnivore in Madagascar and is found solely in forested habitat, and actively hunts both by day and night.

We also are treated to a night time tour under a half moon where I spot a Baobab seed pod on the ground. When I pick it up, it rattles like a musical instrument. I ask our guide if I can take it with me. He says “yes” and I’m elated to have this treasure from the Mother of the Forest.

HOME OF THE BAOBABS

The Baobab is called “Mother of the Forest”.

The next day we come to a village where there is the sacred mother of the Baobabs - ‘Reniala’. Reniala is behind a fenced in area and you take off your shoes to enter. Feeling reverence.

Baobabs are found throughout the drier regions of Africa and feature a water-storing trunk. Sadly, since 2005, 9 of the 13 oldest African baobab specimens and 5 of the 6 largest trees have died or suffered the collapse and death of their largest or oldest stems, caused by climate change. Feeling fortunate to experience these imposing and stately trees.

In awe of nature!