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  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    010403M-03.jpg
  • The Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), Barbary ape, or magot is a species of macaque unique for its distribution outside of Asia and for its vestigial tail. Found in the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco and El-Kouf National Park in Libya along with a small population of unknown origin in Gibraltar, the Barbary macaque is one of the best-known Old World monkey species.<br />
<br />
This image is a great display of grooming behavior.  This behavior is common amongs most primates and many other species and is always interesting to watch when it is occuring naturally.<br />
<br />
The Barbary macaque is of particular interest because males play an atypical role in rearing young. Despite uncertain paternity, males are integral to raising infants. Generally, Barbary macaques of all ages and sexes contribute in alloparental care of young.<br />
Macaque diets consist primarily of plants and insects and they are found in a variety of habitats. Males live to a maximum of 25 years while females may live up to 30 years. Besides humans, they are the only free-living primates in Europe. Although the species is commonly referred to as the "Barbary ape", the Barbary macaque is actually a true monkey. Its name refers to the Barbary Coast of Northern Africa.<br />
The Barbary macaque population of Gibraltar is the only such population outside of Northern Africa. The Rock of Gibraltar is populated by approximately 230 macaques.
    042414-155.jpg
  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    121499M-14.jpg
  • African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus)  -  Linyanti - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus) - The African wild dog has a pelage with an irregular pattern of black, yellow, and white, distinctive for each individual. The scientific name Lycaon pictus is derived from the Greek for "painted wolf". African wild dogs are found only in Africa, typically in scrub savanna and other lightly wooded areas. These magnificent animals were once widely distributed throughout much of Africa. They have been hunted, poisoned and trapped to the point where there are only remnant populations left. They are an endangered species, and an important part of the ecosystems in the areas in which they live. They are the most successful predator on the African continent due to their highly effective pack hunting strategies.
    090501A-13.jpg
  • African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus) - The African wild dog has a pelage with an irregular pattern of black, yellow, and white, distinctive for each individual. The scientific name Lycaon pictus is derived from the Greek for "painted wolf". African wild dogs are found only in Africa, typically in scrub savanna and other lightly wooded areas. These magnificent animals were once widely distributed throughout much of Africa. They have been hunted, poisoned and trapped to the point where there are only remnant populations left. They are an endangered species, and an important part of the ecosystems in the areas in which they live. They are the most successful predator on the African continent due to their highly effective pack hunting strategies.
    121499D-6.jpg
  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    010403C-24.jpg
  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    121399F-5.jpg
  • The Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), Barbary ape, or magot is a species of macaque unique for its distribution outside of Asia and for its vestigial tail. Found in the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco and El-Kouf National Park in Libya along with a small population of unknown origin in Gibraltar, the Barbary macaque is one of the best-known Old World monkey species.<br />
The Barbary macaque is of particular interest because males play an atypical role in rearing young. Despite uncertain paternity, males are integral to raising infants. Generally, Barbary macaques of all ages and sexes contribute in alloparental care of young.<br />
Macaque diets consist primarily of plants and insects and they are found in a variety of habitats. Males live to a maximum of 25 years while females may live up to 30 years. Besides humans, they are the only free-living primates in Europe. Although the species is commonly referred to as the "Barbary ape", the Barbary macaque is actually a true monkey. Its name refers to the Barbary Coast of Northern Africa.<br />
The Barbary macaque population of Gibraltar is the only such population outside of Northern Africa. The Rock of Gibraltar is populated by approximately 230 macaques.
    042414-190.jpg
  • Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)  -   Nxamaseri Channel - Botswana <br />
<br />
The Nile crocodile is the largest crocodilian in Africa and is sometimes regarded as the second largest crocodilian after the Saltwater crocodile, usually measuring between 3.3 and 5 m (11 and 16 feet), but can grow to 6 m (20 ft). Good sized males weigh 500 kg (1100 lb), but can also reach up to 2000 lbs (909 kg). The largest accurately measured male was shot near Mwanza, Tanzania and measured 6.45 m (21.3 ft) and weighed approximately 1,090 kg (2,400 lb).
    090501D-37.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091101A-35.jpg
  • The Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), Barbary ape, or magot is a species of macaque unique for its distribution outside of Asia and for its vestigial tail. Found in the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco and El-Kouf National Park in Libya along with a small population of unknown origin in Gibraltar, the Barbary macaque is one of the best-known Old World monkey species.<br />
The Barbary macaque is of particular interest because males play an atypical role in rearing young. Despite uncertain paternity, males are integral to raising infants. Generally, Barbary macaques of all ages and sexes contribute in alloparental care of young.<br />
Macaque diets consist primarily of plants and insects and they are found in a variety of habitats. Males live to a maximum of 25 years while females may live up to 30 years. Besides humans, they are the only free-living primates in Europe. Although the species is commonly referred to as the "Barbary ape", the Barbary macaque is actually a true monkey. Its name refers to the Barbary Coast of Northern Africa.<br />
The Barbary macaque population of Gibraltar is the only such population outside of Northern Africa. The Rock of Gibraltar is populated by approximately 230 macaques.
    042414-019.jpg
  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    121399F-19.jpg
  • Leopard (Panthera pardus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" (lion, leopard, tiger and jaguar) that belong to the genus Panthera. Leopards were distributed at one time across southern Asia and Africa. The leopard's range has decreased radically over time due primarily to hunting and loss of habitat. Leopard are now primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. Leopards resemble the jaguar, but they are usually smaller and of a slighter build. Their fur is marked with rosettes which lack internal spots, unlike those of the jaguar. Their success in the wild is largely due to their opportunistic hunting behavior, and their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats. Leopards are extremely elusive and their preferred habitat ranges from rainforest to savannahs to desert terrains.
    121399O-20.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201F-07.jpg
  • Baobab tree - Okavango Delta - Botswana<br />
Baobab is the common name of a genus of trees (Adansonia). There are eight species. Six species live in Madagascar, one in mainland Africa, and one in Australia. The baobab is the national tree of Madagascar.<br />
<br />
Other common names include 'boab', 'boaboa', 'bottle tree', 'the tree of life', 'upside-down tree', and 'monkey bread tree'. The trees reach heights of 5 to 30 metres (16 to 98 ft) and trunk diameters of 7 to 11 metres (23 to 36 ft). Its trunk can hold up to 120,000 litres of water. For most of the year, the tree is leafless, and looks very much like it has its roots sticking up in the air.
    120399H-31.jpg
  • African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus)  -  Linyanti - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus) - The African wild dog has a pelage with an irregular pattern of black, yellow, and white, distinctive for each individual. The scientific name Lycaon pictus is derived from the Greek for "painted wolf". African wild dogs are found only in Africa, typically in scrub savanna and other lightly wooded areas. These magnificent animals were once widely distributed throughout much of Africa. They have been hunted, poisoned and trapped to the point where there are only remnant populations left. They are an endangered species, and an important part of the ecosystems in the areas in which they live. They are the most successful predator on the African continent due to their highly effective pack hunting strategies.
    090501A-27.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201E-35.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201D-07.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091101A-04.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201E-10.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201D-27.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201E-04.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201D-11.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091101A-01.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201F-17.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091601D-12.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091301B-01.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201E-07.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091201D-27.jpg
  • Sossussvlei is located in the Namib Desert in southern Namibia and forms part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The desert is Africa's second largest and contains some of the largest dunes in the world (over 300 meters). The area is considered to be one of the oldest deserts in the world, has less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) of rain annually and is almost completely barren.
    091301B-28.jpg
  • Lion (Panthera leo)  <br />
<br />
Masai Mara National Reserve - Kenya <br />
<br />
The lion is the tallest (at the shoulder) of the felids, and is also the second-heaviest of the big cats after the tiger. With powerful legs, a strong jaw, and long canine teeth, the lion can bring down and kill large prey. The coloration of lions can vary from light buff to yellowish, reddish or dark brown. Lion cubs are born with brown rosettes (spots) on their body, similar to a leopard, but will fade as they reach adulthood. Lions are the only members of the cat family to display obvious sexual dimorphism—specifically, males and females look distinctly different. The lioness, lacks the thick mane, which is prominent in the males. The color of the male's mane can vary from blond to black, generally becoming darker as the lion grows older.
    092301B-4.jpg
  • This view of the medina (old city) of Fez was taken from the hills outside of the medina.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic exist
    042314-251.jpg
  • This shop was the only shop in the medina that sold camel meat.  How many places in the world would you see a camels head hanging in a food shop where they are butchering meat for you?  It's places like this that make this city truly unique and such a pleasure to visit.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence
    042214-0575.jpg
  • Traditional ceramics, pottery, craftsmanship and color are staples in Moroccan culture.  So many things are made from hand.  The variety is endless.
    042214-0445.jpg
  • This view of the medina (old city) of Fez was taken from the hills outside of the medina.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic exist
    042214-0135.jpg
  • This is a silk dyeing factory in the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morocco.  They prepare the dyes and drop the silk into large vats of dye (in the foreground).
    041914-353.jpg
  • Desert Adapted Elephant (Loxadonta africana)  -  Damaraland – Namibia <br />
<br />
Damaraland is the old apartheid name given to the region in Namibia south of Kaokoland and north of the main road to Swakopmund. The name Damaraland is derived from the fact that the Damara people live in this area (they were relocated here as a result of the Odendaal Plan in the 1960's). The name Damaraland is still commonly used in tourism circles, although the entire region has now been renamed; the southern section now lies in the Erongo region while the north forms part of the Kunene region.
    090901B-19.jpg
  • African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)  -  Nxamaseri - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
An African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) hunts for it's dinner on the Nxamaseri Channel.
    090601I-03.jpg
  • This view of a mosque against the backdrop of the Rif mountains was taken from a rooftop inside the medina (old city) of Fez.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the tw
    042214-0743.jpg
  • The narrow pathways and streets of the medina (old city) in Fez, Morocco add so much to charm and feel of this city.  These parts of the city are very old.  You can feel it as you walk through the medina and take in the surroundings.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence without losing their own character.
    042214-0508.jpg
  • These dates were on sale at a food stand inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  There was an abundance of food and good quality food in the markets.  Dates like these could be purchased in many places throughout the medina and the square.
    042014-185.jpg
  • The Koutoubia Mosque or Kutubiyya Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco. The mosque is also known by several other names, such as Jami' al-Kutubiyah, Kotoubia Mosque, Kutubiya Mosque, Kutubiyyin Mosque, and Mosque of the Booksellers. It is located in the southwest medina quarter of Marrakesh. The mosque is ornamented with curved windows, a band of ceramic inlay, pointed merlons, and decorative arches; it has a large plaza with gardens, and is floodlit at night. The minaret, 77 metres (253 ft) in height, includes a spire and orbs. It was completed under the reign of the Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184 to 1199), and has inspired other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat.
    042014-019.jpg
  • These snakes belong to a snake charmer in the Jamaa el Fna square on the edge of the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morroco.  The snakes are Egyptian cobras (Naja haje) and Puff adders (Bitis arietans), both highly venomous. The act of snake charming has been around for a long time.  The skills are handed down through families and they have been making a living doing this for generations. This is a unique cultural phenomenon that can only be seen in a few places in the world and Marrakech is one of them.
    041914-198.jpg
  • Spotted Hyaena (Crocuta crocuta)     -    Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania <br />
<br />
This rare scene highlights a tender moment between a Hyaena mother and her pups.
    091801E-02.jpg
  • Lilacbreasted Roller (Coracias caudata) -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    010103A-12.jpg
  • The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence without losing their own character. Fez is at once an astonishing city-museum and one of the largest Islamic metropolises in which the various demographic strata have determined the greatest variety of architectural forms and urban landscapes.<br />
<br />
Having been deserted since
    042214-0730.jpg
  • The narrow pathways and streets of the medina (old city) in Fez, Morocco add so much to charm and feel of this city.  These parts of the city are very old.  You can feel it as you walk through the medina and take in the surroundings.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence without losing their own character.
    042214-0599.jpg
  • Scenes like this spice shop are everywhere inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  The variety, freshness and availbility of spices in Moroccois amazing.  These displays in the spice shops are so colorful and are always so well done.
    042014-190.jpg
  • African Sunrise -  Masaii Mara - Kenya <br />
<br />
A silhoutted Flat-Top Acacia (Acacia abyssinica) tree adorns the fiery morning sky in the Masaii Mara as a group of Hartebeeste (Alcelaphus buselaphus) slowly pass by. The sunrises can be so beautiful in the Mara.  There is a brief period of time that only lasts for a few minutes where the whole sky lights on fire with this beautiful color just before and as the sun crests the horizon.  And then within just a few minutes, the color is gone.
    092301B-17.jpg
  • Spotted Hyaena (Crocuta crocuta)     -    Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania <br />
<br />
This rare scene highlights a tender moment between a Hyaena mother and her pups.
    092001R-9.jpg
  • An African sunset in the Okavango Delta - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    121199M-14.jpg
  • Square-Lipped Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
Square-Lipped (a.k.a. White) Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    010203V-08.jpg
  • I noticed this scene when traveling along the national road from Fes to Marrakech through the middle Atlas mountains. The color of these rugs hanging out the windows to dry was superb!  It was also very typical of the color and flair that is so common in Morocco.
    042414-371.jpg
  • This view of the medina (old city) of Fez was taken from the hills outside of the medina.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic exist
    042314-239.jpg
  • One of the most interesting sites in Fez is the Leather Souq and the oldest leather tannery in the world. The tannery dates back at least nine centuries. When approaching the tannery the smell is the first suggestion that something different is about to appear. The smell drifts around the balcony from where all the activity can be viewed and is enough to put off the most enthusiastic of tourists. The stench is worth braving as the view over the balcony allows those watching to see a site that has not changed since the 11th century.<br />
<br />
The tannery is composed of numerous stone vessels filled with a vast range of dyes and various odorous liquids. The tannery processes the hides (skins) of sheep and goats, turning them into high quality leather products such as bags, coats, shoes, slippers and other similar products. This is all achieved manually, without the need for modern machinery. Men work in unbearably hot conditions (in the summer - 40 degrees and above). The tannery is a good example of mass production, a process that we often consider as being modern.<br />
<br />
The workers stand in the stone vessels arranged like honeycombs, filled with different dyes, dying the arms and legs of the men. The hides are first soaked in diluted acidic pigeon excrement and then transferred to other vessels containing vegetable dyes such as henna, saffron and mint. When the dying process has been completed the hides are dried on the roofs of the Medina. <br />
<br />
The production line created five hundred years ago is basically the same today.
    042214-0953.jpg
  • The narrow pathways and streets of the medina (old city) in Fez, Morocco add so much to charm and feel of this city.  These parts of the city are very old.  You can feel it as you walk through the medina and take in the surroundings.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence without losing their own character.
    042214-0605.jpg
  • The narrow pathways and streets of the medina (old city) in Fez, Morocco add so much to charm and feel of this city.  These parts of the city are very old.  You can feel it as you walk through the medina and take in the surroundings.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic existence without losing their own character.
    042214-0502.jpg
  • This man is working in the Art Naji factory.  He produces traditional ceramics and pottery that other workers will then paint.  Pottery and craftsmanship are staples in Moroccan culture.  So many things are made from hand.  The variety is endless.
    042214-0227.jpg
  • These olives were on sale at an olive stand inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  There was an abundance of food and good quality food in the markets.  Olives like these could be purchased in many places throughout the medina and the square.
    041914-408.jpg
  • This is a silk dyeing factory in the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morocco.  They prepare the dyes and drop the silk into large vats of dye.
    041914-335.jpg
  • An African sunrise in the Okavango Delta - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    121499A-15.jpg
  • Lion (Panthera leo)  -   Matusadonna National Park - Zimbabwe <br />
<br />
The lion is the tallest (at the shoulder) of the felids, and is also the second-heaviest of the big cats after the tiger. With powerful legs, a strong jaw, and long canine teeth, the lion can bring down and kill large prey. The coloration of lions can vary from light buff to yellowish, reddish or dark brown. Lion cubs are born with brown rosettes (spots) on their body, similar to a leopard, but will fade as they reach adulthood. Lions are the only members of the cat family to display obvious sexual dimorphism—specifically, males and females look distinctly different. The lioness, lacks the thick mane, which is prominent in the males. The color of the male's mane can vary from blond to black, generally becoming darker as the lion grows older.
    082601C-08.jpg
  • Square-Lipped Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
Square-Lipped (a.k.a. White) Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    010203V-20.jpg
  • African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana   <br />
<br />
In this rare behavioural photo, a pack of Wild Dogs are harassing a Spotted Hyaena (Crocuta crocuta). This photo is an excellent example of how the dogs work together. You can see how the larger hyaena is completely overwhelmed by the pack.
    121499F-22.jpg
  • Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
This cheetah mother and cubs were photographed on a kill at Mombo in the Okavango Delta. The mother had taken a wildebeeste calf and was teaching her cubs how to penetrate the animals hide and eat it. After eating, they cleaned each other which made this nice scene.
    121199H-22.jpg
  • African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    010303I-27.jpg
  • This view of the medina (old city) of Fez was taken from the hills outside of the medina.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
<br />
The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
<br />
Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
<br />
In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
<br />
Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic exist
    042314-257.jpg
  • This man is working in the Art Naji factory.  He produces traditional ceramics and pottery that other workers will then paint.  Pottery and craftsmanship are staples in Moroccan culture.  So many things are made from hand.  The variety is endless.
    042214-0280.jpg
  • Inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.
    042014-188.jpg
  • Scenes like this spice shop are everywhere inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  The variety, freshness and availbility of spices in Moroccois amazing.  These displays in the spice shops are so colorful and are always so well done.
    042014-136.jpg
  • This table full of dyes is in a silk dyeing factory in the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morocco.
    041914-366.jpg
  • This man is a snake charmer in the Jamaa el Fna square on the edge of the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morroco.  The snake is an Egyptian cobra (Naja haje). The act of snake charming has been around for a long time.  The skills are handed down through families and they have been making a living doing this for generations. This is a unique cultural phenomenon that can only be seen in a few places in the world and Marrakech is one of them.
    041914-256.jpg
  • Square-Lipped Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
<br />
Square-Lipped (a.k.a. White) Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
    010203V-35.jpg
  • Lion (Panthera leo)  <br />
<br />
Mombo - Okavango Delta – Botswana <br />
<br />
The lion is the tallest (at the shoulder) of the felids, and is also the second-heaviest of the big cats after the tiger. With powerful legs, a strong jaw, and long canine teeth, the lion can bring down and kill large prey. The coloration of lions can vary from light buff to yellowish, reddish or dark brown. Lion cubs are born with brown rosettes (spots) on their body, similar to a leopard, but will fade as they reach adulthood. Lions are the only members of the cat family to display obvious sexual dimorphism—specifically, males and females look distinctly different. The lioness, lacks the thick mane, which is prominent in the males. The color of the male's mane can vary from blond to black, generally becoming darker as the lion grows older.
    121199A-21.jpg
  • Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania <br />
<br />
Grace, elegance and beauty typify the flamingo.
    091801D-34.jpg
  • Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania <br />
<br />
Grace, elegance and beauty typify the flamingo.
    091801C-07.jpg
  • African Elephant (Loxadonta africana)  -   Mana Pools National Park – Zimbabwe <br />
<br />
This is a great example of a unique behavior that I've only seen here in Mana Pools National Park and in the forest in the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.  At this time of the year the acacia trees have pods on their branches that the elephants are quite fond of.  They eat everything in reach first, then when they have to go higher, they will start shifting their body back and forth and then use the momentum to launch themselves up in the air.  With the additional height, they can grab the higher branches pull them down, strip them and eat them.  Sometimes they will go all the way up with their entire body supported on one foot.  It's quite a wonderful thing to see...<br />
<br />
Elephants are the largest land animals. The elephant's gestation period is 22 months, the longest of any land animal. At birth it is common for an elephant calf to weigh 120 kilograms (260 lb). They typically live for 50 to 70 years, but the oldest recorded elephant lived for 82 years. The largest elephant ever recorded was shot in Angola in 1956. This male weighed about 12,000 kilograms (26,000 lb), with a shoulder height of 4.2 meters (14 ft), a meter (yard) taller than the average male African elephant. Healthy adult elephants have no natural predators, although lions may take calves or weak individuals. They are, however, increasingly threatened by human intrusion and poaching. Once numbering in the millions, the African elephant population has dwindled.
    083101I-34.jpg
  • Lion (Panthera leo)  <br />
<br />
Mombo - Okavango Delta – Botswana <br />
<br />
The lion is the tallest (at the shoulder) of the felids, and is also the second-heaviest of the big cats after the tiger. With powerful legs, a strong jaw, and long canine teeth, the lion can bring down and kill large prey. The coloration of lions can vary from light buff to yellowish, reddish or dark brown. Lion cubs are born with brown rosettes (spots) on their body, similar to a leopard, but will fade as they reach adulthood. Lions are the only members of the cat family to display obvious sexual dimorphism—specifically, males and females look distinctly different. The lioness, lacks the thick mane, which is prominent in the males. The color of the male's mane can vary from blond to black, generally becoming darker as the lion grows older.
    010603A-22.jpg
  • This image was taken on a narrow street inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  These narrow streets and passage ways are classic scenes in Marrakech.
    042514-09.jpg
  • One of the most interesting sites in Fez is the Leather Souq and the oldest leather tannery in the world. The tannery dates back at least nine centuries. When approaching the tannery the smell is the first suggestion that something different is about to appear. The smell drifts around the balcony from where all the activity can be viewed and is enough to put off the most enthusiastic of tourists. The stench is worth braving as the view over the balcony allows those watching to see a site that has not changed since the 11th century.<br />
<br />
The tannery is composed of numerous stone vessels filled with a vast range of dyes and various odorous liquids. The tannery processes the hides (skins) of sheep and goats, turning them into high quality leather products such as bags, coats, shoes, slippers and other similar products. This is all achieved manually, without the need for modern machinery. Men work in unbearably hot conditions (in the summer - 40 degrees and above). The tannery is a good example of mass production, a process that we often consider as being modern.<br />
<br />
The workers stand in the stone vessels arranged like honeycombs, filled with different dyes, dying the arms and legs of the men. The hides are first soaked in diluted acidic pigeon excrement and then transferred to other vessels containing vegetable dyes such as henna, saffron and mint. When the dying process has been completed the hides are dried on the roofs of the Medina. <br />
<br />
The production line created five hundred years ago is basically the same today.
    042214-0888.jpg
  • These dates were on sale at a food stand inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  There was an abundance of food and good quality food in the markets.  Dates like these could be purchased in many places throughout the medina and the square.
    042014-173.jpg
  • These olives were on sale at an olive stand inside the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco.  There was an abundance of food and good quality food in the markets.  Olives like these could be purchased in many places throughout the medina and the square.
    041914-405.jpg
  • This man is a snake charmer in the Jamaa el Fna square on the edge of the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morroco.  The snake is an Egyptian cobra (Naja haje). The act of snake charming has been around for a long time.  The skills are handed down through families and they have been making a living doing this for generations. This is a unique cultural phenomenon that can only be seen in a few places in the world and Marrakech is one of them.
    041914-291.jpg
  • Sunrise in the Masaii Mara Game Reserve, Kenya.
    092401G-21.jpg
  • Traveling along the national road from Fes to Marrakech through the middle Atlas mountains, this mountain scene with dashes of color from the wildflowers typifies this part of the Moroccan countryside.
    042414-350.jpg
  • This view of the medina (old city) of Fez was taken from the hills outside of the medina.  Fez is located between the Rif mountains and the Atlas mountains in northern Morocco.  It's a beautiful area and the views of the area are quite beautiful, particularly in the spring.<br />
<br />
The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is an outstanding and well-preserved example of an ancient capital of the Almoravids and the Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in its old, densely packed monuments - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the capital founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.<br />
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The ancient city, home to the oldest university in the world, is composed of two distinct centres. One is the quarter of the Andalous, a population that fled from the Umayyad masters of Cordoba and who came to settle definitively on the right bank of the Fez. The other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, a people emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century who chose the left bank of the river to develop their activities.<br />
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Despite the destruction of a considerable part of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty that took power in the 11th century, the two quarters grouped around two major monuments, the Jama el Andalous (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne, have preserved their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.<br />
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In the 13th century, after the Merinid conquest, when the city found itself constrained within its walls, a new city, Fez el Jedid, was founded directly to the west, in ah 674 by the sultan Abou Youssouf. It replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, was joined to the newly founded city. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the Medina date from this period.<br />
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Since then, the twin cities have led a symbiotic exist
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  • Goliath heron (Ardea goliath) - Matusadonna National Park on the shores of Lake Kariba - Zimbabwe
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  • Square-Lipped Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
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Square-Lipped (a.k.a. White) Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
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  • This man is working in the Art Naji factory.  He produces traditional ceramics and pottery that other workers will then paint.  Pottery and craftsmanship are staples in Moroccan culture.  So many things are made from hand.  The variety is endless.
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  • This snake belongs to a snake charmer in the Jamaa el Fna square on the edge of the medina (old city) in Marrakech, Morroco.  It is an Egyptian cobra (Naja haje).  Cobras are beautiful animals.  Their subtlety and variation in color reveals how beautiful these snakes really are.  <br />
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The act of snake charming has been around for a long time.  The skills are handed down through families and they have been making a living doing this for generations. This is a unique cultural phenomenon that can only be seen in a few places in the world and Marrakech is one of them.
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  • An African sunrise in the Okavango Delta - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
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  • African Elephant (Loxadonta africana)  -   Mana Pools National Park – Zimbabwe <br />
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Elephants are the largest land animals. The elephant's gestation period is 22 months, the longest of any land animal. At birth it is common for an elephant calf to weigh 120 kilograms (260 lb). They typically live for 50 to 70 years, but the oldest recorded elephant lived for 82 years. The largest elephant ever recorded was shot in Angola in 1956. This male weighed about 12,000 kilograms (26,000 lb), with a shoulder height of 4.2 meters (14 ft), a meter (yard) taller than the average male African elephant. Healthy adult elephants have no natural predators, although lions may take calves or weak individuals. They are, however, increasingly threatened by human intrusion and poaching. Once numbering in the millions, the African elephant population has dwindled.
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  • Slaty Egret (Egretta vinaceigula) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
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  • Square-Lipped Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)  -  Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana <br />
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Square-Lipped (a.k.a. White) Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) - Mombo - Okavango Delta - Botswana
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  • Patterns and trends begun to evolve whereby the populations that inhabited the lakeshores slowly moved progressively higher into the uplands, which required felling trees for food and fuel production. This trend, coupled with the very fertile land capable of producing food, is why these rural areas have some of the highest population densities in all of Africa. As a result of an ever-present slow drift of people toward the uplands, the forests were continuing to disappear at an alarming rate.<br />
From the Ruhija Research Station looking out across the forest in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park toward the Virunga Volcanoes in neighboring Rwanda and the Democractic Republic of Congo the impact of land clearing is visible in the stretch of farmland in the middle of the photo. The most significant land clearing has occurred within the last five hundred to a thousand years and ultimately led to a permanent separation between the once contiguous forests of Bwindi and the Virungas.
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