Her fascination with birds of prey has only intensified since attending a weekend course on raptor identification, writes Wild ed Romi Boom. They are notoriously difficult to identify, and from now on she's using a completely different system to the usual field guide approach.

How do you inspire a generation? How do you shape a supple mind?

The familiar saying “He who laughs last, laughs the loudest” applies to plants in their ability to survive as a species, even after they have been eaten!

I have fallen in love. Again. This time my passion goes by the name of homoglossum priori. Yes, yes, I know, not very compelling. Neither is its popular name, rooi Afrikaner. That makes me think of Eugene Terreblanche’s neck.

It has already been suggested that lions from Central and West Africa look and behave differently to those in East and Southern Africa, but little scientific evidence has previously been presented to back it up. Recent studies, however, have now proven a difference in their genetic makeup.

Most people think that snakes inject venom into their prey through hollow fangs (much like a doctor uses a syringe to inject you). But only about one seventh of venomous snake species have fangs that are hollowed. So how do they get venom into their victims?

Finding a big spotted cat in the wild remains one of the great experiences. But if we want to spot leopards and cheetah in the future, steps will have to be taken. By Rita van den Heever

In the Kalahari, tsamma melons Citrullus lanatus are a principal source of water for many animals in times of drought. It is also enjoyed by many people throughout Africa, in dry or desert regions.

There are many similarities between powerful animals and humankind. Lions, bears, buffalo and strong antelope have all been used to describe a man’s physical ability. But when it comes to behaviour, it seems the peacock is the best comparison.