A boyhood encounter with a whale saw the start of a lifelong passion for artist Noel Ashton. With his wife Belinda he has produced an indispensable guide to watching whales and dolphins in Southern Africa.

This month is the start of new adventures for an American couple making their 13th visit in 13 years to the Kruger National Park.

If you want proof that man and nature can cohabit, then look no further than the Kogelberg. Although the land has been protected for nearly a hundred years, only recently has it become accessible to the public.

By Nick Dall

The grand prize for Wild and Amarula's Capture the Sunset photo competition was the chance to go on safari with award-winning photographers Roger and Pat de la Harpe. From 17 to 20 June the lucky winner will take part in a wildlife photo safari at Madikwe Game Reserve. Roger lets us in on the last minute preparations.

One tree’s meat is another tree’s poison… The strangler fig takes over its host tree by growing downwards and upwards. By Sandie Lee Muncaster

This vibrantly illustrated and engaging book brings together three children’s nature guides. Discover the animals, birds and plants of South Africa’s desert, river and bushveld environments. Through fun quizzes, games and activities, kids learn more about the wonders of the wilds. Get Bushwise: On Safari is sure to be a hit with young explorers!

Author Nadine Clark’s wealth of knowledge and experience shines through in this bumper book. She studied horticulture and zoology and has extensive training in environmental education. She has worked at Kirstenbosch Gardens and Lapalala Wilderness School in the Waterberg, among others.

How do you distinguish a poisonous snake, scorpion or spider from one that is harmless? Below is a quick guide to the good, the bad and the ugly.

 

A little time goes a long way when you spend it outdoors, so why not plan a day trip during the winter break?

Want to keep the kids entertained over the winter break? Then don't miss our winter colour-in competition. Download this image below and give it to your child to colour in. There are prizes to the value of R7 500 to be won!

After the success of our autumn competition, we've decided to run three age categories: 0–4 years, 5–6 years and 7–9 years.

There's a copy of this picture on the back of your Wild winter issue's address sheet. Your magazine is being posted, so look out for it soon.