Stop and Save the RhinoceRoses: One of Many Interesting Days To Come

Over the past few weeks I have some really good days (I mean how could I not I'm working with rhinos)...but then there were also a few days that didn't go as well. Two days stick out in particular and over the next few posts I'll tell you about them. The first day started like any other day. Jamie and I were taking the "Tots”; Kumba, Lunga, and Faith, out on a walk. Usually as soon as they walk past the gates into the bush, they take that opportunity to use the restroom. And like I said this day was no different...well except Lunga was minding his own business...doing his business...a little too close to where Faith was also doing hers. We look over and see Lunga hop back in shock, shake his head, and stare at us with a look of pure disgust as poo and urine drips from his face. As you could imagine Jamie and I were doubled over as we were laughing so hard. The poor little fella got a nice wake up call and didn't look too pleased to have received it...nor to be laughed at. After we finally contained ourselves we continued on our way. We stopped at a spot that they love. They layed down for a bit and then all of a sudden it was as if Lunga remembered the tragedy that had occurred moments before and got in a bad mood. Charging Faith, who I happened to be standing next to, but instead of hitting his original target, he smacked me right in the shin sending pulses through my leg!! As soon as my leg pain started to subside he decides he is going to go for Kumba....again the rhino I have decided to stand near. So who does he hit?...yep, me! This time he hit me under the knee, lifting his head and bringing my leg along with it. Once I finally got him to calm down and was able to bring my leg back to where it belongs, I assessed the damaged. His horn sent a nice scratch all the way up my leg and ending with an instantly colorful giant bruise. Yes...it did hurt. Lunga seemingly pleased with himself, carried on his way. Jamie, now laughing at my bad luck, followed as I feebly wobbled along. Thanks Lunga! After we got back I decided to grab the hose to fill their water bowls. As I "kinked" the hose to carry it, the attachment that connected the hose to the "spicket" blew off sending water everywhere. I went back and reattached it and then as I step away it burst off again but this time soaking me in the process. I quickly turned it off and looked at Jamie who now is hysterical....I'm SO glad she was entertained. Hours past with no other serious issues, well besides some spilled milk but I can't cry over that. Then as we were feeding the teenagers Nyani decided to take a poo...which splashed all over my legs....not sure I believe in karma but this sure is supporting the theory. The rest of the day included a bit of mud flicking on me during a rhino mud bath but that's was minuscule. The day finally ended with a nice shower and well needed sleep. Stories of my other particular bad day and the good ones surrounding it are to follow. Also, you can follow this blog and get updates on my future posts if that's what you're interested in. Stay tuned.