A Tribute To The Life Of Gareth Jones (1961-2022): A Man Who Loved God & All His Creation
A Dedicated Wildlife Conservationist, A Wonderful Husband, A Loving Father, An Amazing Friend & A Passionate Writer & Photographer.
Message From Gareth Jones On the 19th Of May 2022, Just A Few Days Before He Left Us…
“..I’m indeed privileged to live so close to wildlife…Nairobi is very unique in that a priceless “GEM” we call the Nairobi National Park is still intact and thriving in some ways.. while in the process of becoming a “green island surrounded by a sea of human development”….my continuing motivation for writing the articles is to hopefully communicate to many people to ensure that there is a desire to keep Kenya’s GOD given natural heritage intact for future generations to enjoy!!! 🤔🙏🏼…”
Where do we begin? Trefor Gareth Jones, known by many as Gareth Jones was an extraordinary human, who lived a very humble life, dedicating most of his life to wildlife. He was involved in wildlife conservation for more than 50 years. His father was a warden, and he too was appointed in 1986 by gazette in South African Parliament as an honorary ranger (warden) for South African National Parks. He played a very active role in conservation of many parks South African & East African, including the famous city park, one of his most visited; the Nairobi National Park. During his lifetime, he had more than 5,000 visits to this park alone and if you asked visitors of the park, they’d vouch that he was one of the few to know the park so well. He was a good Samaritan of the park and has also helped many vehicles that got stuck in black cotton. In 2020, he was appointed the Chairman of the FoNNaP Board, leading his team fervently through the pandemic. He was an amazing human, with immense love and passion for all the animals; big & small. He was famous for his articles and wildlife photography and wrote for different media, including H&S Magazine where he has contributed almost 200 articles, all of which have been listed here for his fans not just in Africa but from all around the world to access. This page is dedicated in honour of our dear friend, who was also a father-figure & mentor to the founders of H&S Magazine. So today we celebrate the life of Gareth Jones, a conservationist, photographer, writer and most of all the voice of the many voiceless creatures!
Lastly, we want to end with a beautiful poem written by Gareth himself, titled ‘Just Life!’. We hope he inspires you as he has inspired us & many others across the globe, to leave this world a better place for the future generations!
JUST LIFE! By Gareth Jones
A loving twinkle in my father’s eye
started life blessed from up high
from the time of a baby’s birth
there is much to do while on earth.
And as we mature and grow
who’s to know how life will go
from the womb to the groom
the groom to the tomb.
So many people wondering why?
We are born and then we die.
Wondering what is the reason
of life within for every season.
And even though we do our best
much of life is a kind of test
right from our humble start
it’s a test from within the heart.
A constant battle of the mind
to forgive more and be kind
each precious life has a story
hopefully to give GOD glory.
And even when we struggle to win
as we are weighed down with sin
Thankfully, love runs the life race
with us and gives us grace.
As many look to the cross
to be set free from great loss
for whom the SON sets free
is free indeed, so much joy to be.
Our hearts thrive on love
especially agape from above
Fear not the seemingly unknown
by faith, trust GOD where we are going.
For from the time of our birth
this very short time on earth
is but a mere apprenticeship
Preparing for life in ETERNITY.
On A Mission For The Wild Animals
“However today…I’m a bit stunned….a short version of my testimony reached millions of people in South Africa today…in 5 of the largest Afrikaans newspapers….🙏🏻” – Gareth Jones (23rd May 2020)
Beeld in Gauteng, Die Burger in die Wes-Kaap, Die Burger-Oos in die Oos-Kaap, Volksblad in Die Vrystaat, miskien ook by Netwerk 24
Gareth Jones
Discover Unexpected Wildlife Experiences...
Nairobi’s Special Raptors ‘Eagles’- Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI’S REGAL EAGLES!! - BY GARETH JONES Early on a fresh summer morning after heavy rain the night before I drove slowly through the park, hoping to see something special. A large bird sat perched on
Nairobi Baboons – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI BABOONS – THE OLIVE TROOPS! - BY GARETH JONES Not too long ago much wildlife roamed freely in the Nairobi area as there was very little human development, however in the last 100 years the
Who Is The Boss? – Article by Gareth Jones
Who Is The Boss In The Nairobi National Park? Very early on a cloudy gloomy morning we arrived at the large dam next to no 2 Junction with an Italian visitor and found a majestic male
The Cunning Cuckoo!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Cunning Cuckoo In The Nairobi National Park Early one weekend morning, we ventured into the Athi basin, and eventually arrived at the Athi dam. This particular dam is always a rewarding place to sit quietly
Awesome Amboseli!! – Article by Gareth Jones
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK - AWESOME AMBOSELI!! - By GARETH JONES The alarm clock buzzed at 04h00, we rapidly awoke and packed a few remaining items into our car and left Nairobi just after 05H00. I always
Eggs & Chicks – Article by Gareth Jones
EGGS & CHICKS!!! - BIRD WATCHING - BY GARETH JONES Over the years we have enjoyed so many aspects of the Nairobi National Park, always with an air of expectation and anticipation mixed with the excitement
The Warty Wallow!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Warty Wallow Of The Nairobi National Park Walter Warty awoke with an oinky grunt, and mumbled to his dear wife Wartilda “Mmmm! snork… snort… snork…how about us going to the Athi Health Spa this morning
The Gentle Giants!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
THE GENTLE GIANTS OF NNP Looking down from the wall of the Athi dam, we watched as a large herd of giraffe lined up to drink out of a stream just below the dam. They seemed
Sunbirds Of Nairobi National Park – Article by Gareth Jones
Wonderful Sunbird Therapy! - Nairobi National Park After plentiful rains this year, there is an abundance of wildflowers in the park, as a result, many species actively gain nutrition from flowers, including the wonderful sunbirds. Sunbirds
Flightless & Fast!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Flightless & Fast In The Nairobi National Park One fine afternoon, I drove into the park from the East gate. An ostrich was walking quickly parallel to the road. So I drove slowly forward towards him,
Colobus Monkeys- Article by Gareth Jones
COLOBUS MONKEYS IN DIANI! Early one morning, I walked out behind our accommodation at Diani Beach Chalets to explore the natural sights. Suddenly a movement caught my eye, it was a colobus monkey in a tree
Just Pelicans – Article by Gareth Jones
Pelicans Of The Nairobi National Park Over many years I have noted that most of us are still in “City mode” when we enter a national park and would like to see as much of the
Lions On Honeymoon- Article by Gareth Jones
Lions On Honeymoon At The Nairobi National Park Early one cool morning we found a mating pair of lions near no 8 junction, quite close to the road. The one-eyed male was in his prime and
Rabbits Or Hares? – Article by Gareth Jones
Rabbits Or Hares Of The Nairobi National Park? It was late one afternoon on a cloudy day, as I drove through the Langata forest section, it was getting darker quickly in one area there were many
Big Billed Birds!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Big Billed Birds Of Nairobi National Park As I approached a dam in the forest, I slowed the vehicle down to a crawl speed in the hope that my arrival would not alarm any wildlife that
The Red Buck!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Red Buck - Impala Of Nairobi! One fine afternoon, I drove in the area of the Kingfisher picnic site, looking over the valley below at the splendor before me. The park is looking like a
Nairobi’s Climbing Lions- Article by Gareth Jones
Climbing Lions Of The Nairobi National Park On a cloudy Saturday afternoon as I drove through the park, in the valley below No5 junction, a group of giraffe caught my attention. The giraffes were all
Waiting At The Water – Article by Gareth Jones
Waiting At The Water In The Nairobi National Park Over many years I have noted that most of us are still in “City mode” when we enter a national park and would like to see as
Feathered Fluffballs- Article by Gareth Jones
Feathered Fluffballs Of Nairobi National Park Over the years, we have enjoyed many aspects of the Nairobi National Park, always with an air of expectation and anticipation mixed with the excitement of what could possibly be
Africa’s Largest Flying Bird- Article by Gareth Jones
Africa's Largest Flying Bird - Kori Bustard Early one morning, we drove slowly through the park hoping to see something special. Due to the very dry conditions, a fire had burned a section of the park.
A Serval Morning – Article by Gareth Jones
A Serval Morning In The Nairobi National Park When driving in the Nairobi National Park, it is always good to be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. Try to drive
The Tiny Suni!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Tiny Suni Of The Nairobi National Park While driving on the tar road towards the main gate in the late afternoon, I saw a tiny antelope eating next to the road. It was a tiny
Busy Buzz Syndrome?- Article by Gareth Jones
BUSY BUZZ or BUSH BUZZ? In the modern madness of the Nairobi megacity, it is so easy to become overburdened with the burdens of the multiple issues and events that happen constantly, to the point where
The Speedy Spots!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Speedy Spots: Africa's Remaining Cheetahs Clouds of dust arose rapidly as thousands of wildebeest accelerated to escape, then in a flash five speeding cheetahs caught up with the herd and targeted their victim. Within seconds,
The Athi Basin Jackals! – Article by Gareth Jones
Athi Basin Jackals In The Nairobi National Park Early one morning I decided to drive down to the Athi basin and took one of the backtracks to look for wildlife, suddenly a black-backed jackal was
The Longest Lizard!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Longest Lizard In The Nairobi National Park After a cold day the sun finally came out giving some warmth. I drove down towards the Hyena dam, and I saw a fairly large monitor lizard, sunning
Mother’s Tough Love Choice!- Article by Gareth Jones
Mother's Tough Love Choice - Crowned Lapwing & Its Chicks In Nairobi National Park Several weeks ago, I noticed a bird sitting less than 2 metres from the road, it was a crowned lapwing. After
The Nairobi Snakes ?- Article by Gareth Jones
? NAIROBI PARK SNAKES! - BY GARETH JONES It was getting late after a hot day, I watched the sun was setting fast. I drove along just looking straight ahead, as it was difficult to see
The Rare Skimmer!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Rare African Skimmer We arrived at the Hyena dam early on a lazy Sunday afternoon and parked our vehicle as we often do when watching birds. Suddenly a movement on the edge of the dam
From Cub To King!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Cubs To Kings Lion cubs are indeed very cute creatures and sightings are immensely enjoyable by those who see them in the wild. However, while there are playful and joyful moments, being part of the cub
Bush Mode – Article by Gareth Jones
Changing To Bush Mode!! - by Gareth Jones In this fast and often crazy world, we live in, many people like to 'escape from the city' and spend time in a natural environment. Well, the
Our Forest Has Secrets! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - SECRETS OF THE FOREST!! - BY GARETH JONES There is something mysterious and wondrous about being in a natural forest, and the Langata forest part of the Nairobi National Park is such
The Super Scoopers!!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Super Scoopers Of The Nairobi National Park Over many years, I have noted that most of us are still in “City mode” when we enter a national park, and would like to see as much
The Hunter Bird – Article by Gareth Jones
The Hunter Bird Of The Nairobi National Park It was late in the afternoon as I entered the East Gate. As the weather was fairly gloomy and cloudy, I had not prepared my camera to be
Lionese Lessons!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Lionese Lessons- The Nairobi National Park Just imagine if we understood Lion talk!
The Royal Cub Club!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Royal Cub Club - Lion Life Is Tough! Lion cubs are indeed very cute creatures and sightings are immensely enjoyed by those who see them in the wild. However, while there are playful and joyful
Balancing The Biomass – Article by Gareth Jones
Balancing The Biomass At The NNP - Written by Gareth Jones We all need the energy to survive in the world, wild animals who eat plant species can only survive and thrive if there is enough
Worms & Wonderful Wings – Article by Gareth Jones
Worms & Wonderful Wings Of The Nairobi National Park - by Gareth Jones Some time ago while driving on a rough track in the Athi Basin, I noticed a large predominantly green worm with incredibly beautiful
The Elusive Bushpigs!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Elusive Bushpigs Of Nairobi National Park There is something mysterious and wondrous about being in a natural forest, and the Langata forest part of the Nairobi National Park is such a place. The thick bush
The Big Babies!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Big Babies Of Nairobi National Park As we drove around a bend in the road, a female white rhino and her calf were quite close to the road. We stopped and observed them for a
Ol Pejeta Safari- Article by Gareth Jones
SAFARI AT THE OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY For many years we heard interesting stories of people going to Ol Pejeta for a few days. So about 3 years ago we eventually decided to go for 2 nights.
Highlighting Hyrax!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Highlighting Hyrax In The Nairobi National Park Very early one morning we drove down the western boundary, it was a clear, crisp morning and everything seemed new and fresh. After a while, we drove up the steep
Fun Family Moments!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Fun Family Moments At The Nairobi National Park The alarm clock buzzed at 05h00 as we awoke to a new day and arrived at the gate just after 06H00. The master plan was to spend the entire
Unique Hamerkop Birds – Article by Gareth Jones
Unique Hamerkop Birds Of Nairobi National Park! The recent rains have resulted in a very wet park, it is amazing how areas that were bone dry a month ago have now almost become marshes and even
The Lion’s Friend!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Lion's Friend In The Nairobi National Park Sometimes there are times when I look for really small things. Some time ago, I found an older lioness lying next to the road in the Nairobi National
The Thrill Bills!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Thrill Bills Of The Nairobi National Park As I approached a dam in the forest near the Langata gate, a flash of colour caught my eye, there in the midst of the reeds was a
Flight Feeding Frenzy! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - FLIGHT FEEDING FRENZY!!! - By GARETH JONES Early one morning after some good rain, I drove past junction No4A parallel to the stream. Suddenly I observed a lot of activity near the
Maasai Mara Moments- Article by Gareth Jones
Wonderful Maasai Mara Moments With Gareth Jones The year 2020 has been an extreme year in many ways, with millions of people worldwide being severely restricted regarding legal permission to travel and also facing serious economic losses.
The Playful Pups!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Playful Pups Of Nairobi National Park Early one cool cloudy morning, we entered the East gate and drove towards the southern end of the park. As we approached the No 10 murram heaps, we found
The Suni – Article by Gareth Jones
The Suni- Special & Secretive A while ago while driving on the tar road towards the main gate in the late afternoon, I saw a tiny antelope eating next to the road. It was a tiny
Big Cat Communication!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - BIG CAT COMMUNICATION!! - By GARETH JONES Late one afternoon I sat quietly in the Langata forest watching a sleeping lion in the hope that he would awaken from his slumber and
Water Is Life – Article by Gareth Jones
IN THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK WATER IS LIFE! - BY GARETH JONES Over many years I have noted that most of us are still in “City mode” when we enter a national park, and would like
The Laughing Hyenas – Article by Gareth Jones
FUNNY CREATURES OF NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK- THE LAUGHING HYENAS!!! - BY GARETH JONES Early morning drives through the park are events that have a feeling of the unexpected. Such an event happened near junction No7, after
Rhino Crossing – Article by Gareth Jones
RHINO CROSSING IN THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Every time we drive into the park there is an excitement in knowing that every day is different and that we might witness something unusual. Recently on a relatively
GANDA PLUS U!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Experience “Ganda Plus U”! This time of year with the mid-year approaching fast, many families are considering plans to travel to various vacation destinations within Kenya. However, in this article, I wish to highlight the
Spotted Cat!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Spotting The Spotted Cat - By Gareth Jones It was early morning on a beautiful day, as we drove slowly through the park appreciating the sunrise and God’s wonderful creation. As we drove along the western
Worms & Wings! – Article by Gareth Jones
WONDERFUL WORMS & WINGS: BUTTERFLIES & MOTHS! - BY GARETH JONES We drove slowly along a rough track in the Athi Basin, as we passed a small acacia tree, just then I noticed a large predominantly green
The Green Island – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - THE GREEN ISLAND! - BY GARETH JONES In the Athi basin many species are currently preparing to cross the Athi river to move out of the Nairobi Park. This seasonal movement out
Creation Is Absolutely Incredible! – Article by Gareth Jones
Creation Is Absolutely Incredible; The Nairobi National Park - by Gareth Jones After driving in the Nairobi National Park on over 4500 occasions, over many years, I remain in awe as to the incredibly wide range
The Struggling Marabou!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Struggling Marabou In The Nairobi National Park Then on a recent Sunday afternoon, I was with some international guests who were looking forward to seeing and enjoying some of the wonderful and interesting sightings in
New Life Moments!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
We recently witnessed an incredible event at the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park. A fish eagle landed on the bank of the dam and stood for a while. Then it suddenly took off,
Purely Purply Moments- Article by Gareth Jones
Purely Purply Moments With The Purple Gallinule- Article by Gareth Jones I sat for some time at the Hyena dam and patiently watched and waited. Everything looked so much greener and the dam was very full
The Little Ones! – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI ANTELOPE - THE LITTLE ONES- BY GARETH JONES Many people only seem to notice the larger creatures like rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, lions etc. when visiting the park, however there are many interesting small creatures
Saving Kenya’s Elephants! – Article by Gareth Jones
Saving Kenya's Elephants - Hands Off Our Elephants! The battle to save the elephants in Kenya and throughout Africa continues, as many are aware a few years ago a huge mega pile of Ivory representing
Elands Are Elegant!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
ELEGANT ELANDS OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Wow! What a sight for the naked eye to behold, before me stood a big herd of elands, moving slowly across the Embakasi plains as they grazed and interacted
The Nairobi Crocodiles – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK- CROCODILES!! - BY GARETH JONES It was a cold cloudy morning as I sat quietly at the Hyena dam, waiting and watching to see what bird action there was. Suddenly a movement caught
The Fishing Kings! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - THE FISHING KINGS!!! - By GARETH JONES After plentiful rains this year, all of the rivers, streams and dams are well filled. The rains are always restoring and bring an abundance of
Nairobi Culture Vultures!- Article by Gareth Jones
Vultures Of The Nairobi National Park The stench of rotting flesh permeated the air in the area around the dam and tar road near the No2 junction. For some days now many people had watched lions
The Hybrid Waterbuck – Article by Gareth Jones
The Hybrid Waterbuck Of The Nairobi National Park Waterbuck are one of those species in the Nairobi National Park that are not often seen and are therefore not really predictable on their exact location. I do
The Battle Of The Bulls – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK: THE BATTLE OF THE BULLS Some time back it was late in the afternoon as heavy rain clouds moved over the park, I decided to drive across the park and exit at Masai
Packs And Pups!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - PACKS AND PUPS!! - By GARETH JONES Early one cool morning we entered the East gate and drove towards the middle of the park. Soon I saw a movement next to the
Some Monkey Business!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Some Monkey Business In The Nairobi National Park Driving near large trees along the Athi river we saw a large troop of vervet monkeys. It was late afternoon with the sun shining, and many of them
Tortoises & Terrapins- Article by Gareth Jones
Tortoises & Terrapins Of The Nairobi National Park With the recent heavy rains, although the park was very wet and muddy, it has been possible to see more of the creatures that are not normally seen.
Click The Pic! – Article by Gareth Jones
Click The Pic - Enjoy Wildlife Photography!!! - by Gareth Jones I do not pretend to know everything about taking good wildlife photos, but over a period of half a century hopefully, some hard lessons have
Creatures In Trees!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Creatures In Trees Of The Nairobi National Park! There is something mysterious and wondrous about being in a natural forest irrespective of where you are in Africa, and the Nairobi National Park is such a wonderful
The Big Bull Bully!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Big Bull Bully In The Nairobi National Park A few weeks ago, we drove down towards the murram heaps near No 10 junction. I chose to use the rougher track to approach the area, in
Nightjar The Night Star- Article by Gareth Jones
NIGHTJAR THE NIGHT STAR OF NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK For those who enter the park very early when the gates open at 06h00, it is an opportunity to have a glimpse of some of the night creatures,
Some Reptile Stories! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - SOME REPTILE STORIES!! - By GARETH JONES The Nile Monitor After a cold day, the sun finally came out giving some warmth. I drove down towards the Hyena dam, and I saw a
The Lurking Leopards – Article by Gareth Jones
The Story Of The Lurking Leopards - Written by Gareth Jones It was early morning on a crisply cold day in September 2014. I decided to change my normal route and drove past the Kingfisher picnic
The Nairobi Elephants – Article by Gareth Jones
The Nairobi Elephants At The Elephant Orphanage A while ago we arrived at the Elephant Orphanage a few minutes before 11h00, there was already a large crowd of people in the queue waiting to see the
Lark Kills Mantis!- Article by Gareth Jones
Lark Kills Mantis In The Nairobi National Park It was late in the afternoon and the shadows began to form shapes across the road, I was driving slowly, and stopping frequently to watch and listen. I
Baby Baboons- Article by Gareth Jones
BABY BABOONS OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Not too long ago, much wildlife roamed freely in the Nairobi area as there was very little human development, however, in the last 100 years the city has grown
Nairobi’s Royal Birds – Article by Gareth Jones
THE ROYAL CRANES! - BY GARETH JONES We slowly approached a treed area where there was a dam with reeds. As we sat quietly waiting, a family of grey crowned cranes emerged from the long grass
It’s All About Waiting At The Water – Article by Gareth Jones
WAITING AT THE WATER
Zebra “On The Roll”- Article by Gareth Jones
ZEBRA “ON THE ROLL" AT THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Year after year the plains zebra faithfully return to the Nairobi park to seek fine pasture. In recent years this feat is becoming more and more challenging
Clicks For Better Pics! – Article by Gareth Jones
CLICKS FOR BETTER PICS - IT'S ALL ABOUT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY!!! - By GARETH JONES I do not pretend to know everything about taking good wildlife photos, but over a period of half a century hopefully, some
Reedbuck- The African Antelope! – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI REEDBUCK! - BY GARETH JONES Late one afternoon I drove to the Hyena dam area, it was very evident that some parts of the park were looking green, with various sightings of herbivores and
An Enjoyable Park Day!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
AN ENJOYABLE PARK DAY AT THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK The alarm clock buzzed at 04h30 as we awoke to a new day! We prepared then packed the car and arrived at the gate just before 06H00,
Mud, Mud, Glorious Mud!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Nairobi National Park - Mud, Mud, Glorious Mud! Nairobi normally has 2 seasonal rain cycles annually. At the beginning of November 2019, what is known as the “short rains”, began. At first, the rains seemed normal,
Mountain Reedbuck – Article by Gareth Jones
The Chanler's Mountain Reedbuck While some people might be aware of the more common Bohor reedbuck frequenting the wetland areas of the Nairobi Park, very few people are aware of the rarely seen Chanler's Mountain reedbuck
Cheating The Cheetah!- Article by Gareth Jones
CHEATING THE CHEETAH - NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK'S CHEETAHS As I looked over the plains not far from the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park, near the fence a line of a herd of Kongoni was
The Nairobi Rhinos – Article by Gareth Jones
BLACK & WHITE IS GREY - BY GARETH JONES It is always a thrill to see Rhino in the wild, just a few days ago I saw some White Rhino peacefully grazing in the park. That
Super Sensitive Servals!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Super Sensitive Servals Of The Nairobi National Park When driving in the Nairobi National Park, always be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. It is good to drive with your
The Wildest Holiday!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Wildest Holiday In The Nairobi National Park The alarm clock buzzed at 04h30 as we awoke to a new day! We packed the car and arrived at the gate just after 06H10, excited to
Bravo Tsavo East! – Article by Gareth Jones
Tsavo East National Park - Bravo Tsavo East! The alarm clock buzzed at 04h00, we rapidly awoke and packed a few remaining items into our car and left Nairobi just after 05H00. After weeks of waiting,
Nairobi City Escape- Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI CITY ESCAPE - THE BUSH BUZZ!! - BY GARETH JONES In this fast and often crazy world we live in ,many people like to "escape from the city" and spend time in a natural environment.
The Unique African Antelope – Article by Gareth Jones
UNIQUE AFRICAN ANTELOPE - BY GARETH JONES Wow! What a sight for the naked eye to behold, before me stood a big herd of elands, moving slowly across the Embakasi plains as they grazed and
Run Baby Run!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - RUN BABY RUN!! - By GARETH JONES As I drove through the park late one afternoon after a good shower of rain, I noticed some movement in the small stream “lugga” in
The Nairobi Hippos- Article by Gareth Jones
HIPPO ON THE GO!! - BY GARETH JONES Some years ago it was getting late on a cloudy day and almost becoming evening, and being tired after a long day, I rode slowly but purposefully through
The Mighty Buffalo – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI BUFFALO HERDS - BY GARETH JONES Some years ago, as I rounded a bend in the Langata forest, the road was full of buffalo. There were so many, from tiny calves to cows to young
Tsavo West National Park – Article by Gareth Jones
TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK - BRAVO IT'S TSAVO!!! - By GARETH JONES The alarm clock buzzed at 04h00, we rapidly awoke and packed a few remaining items into our car and left Nairobi just after 05H00.
Cubs Are Cute!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Cute Cubs Of The Nairobi National Park - Written by Gareth Jones Just imagine for a moment if we could actually understand Lion talk!
The River Horse!- Article by Gareth Jones
The River Horse: Hippos In Nairobi! Some years ago, it was getting late on a cloudy day and almost becoming evening, and being tired after a long day, I rode slowly but purposefully through the park,
The Call Of Africa!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Call Of Africa: The African Fish Eagle! A few years ago, we witnessed an incredible and very rare natural event at the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park. A fish eagle landed on the
More Than Just Lions!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Much More Than Lions! The alarm clock buzzed at 05h00, as we awoke to a new day and arrived at the gate just after 06H00. The master plan was to spend the entire day in the
The ‘Bluetiful’ Guineafowl!! – Article by Gareth Jones
The “Bluetiful” Guineafowl Of Africa We awoke early before sunrise and prepared for a morning game drive in the Meru National Park. Departing just before sunrise, we soon arrived at a low river crossing bridge, then
The Rare Cheetah!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Rare Cheetah In The Nairobi National Park We awoke very early and entered the park just after 06h00. I decided to slowly head down towards the Athi Basin via the western boundary. We drove slowly
Giraffes Are Amazing! – Article by Gareth Jones
THE AMAZING GIRAFFES OF NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK!!! - BY GARETH JONES Looking down from the wall of the Hyena dam, I watched as some giraffes lined up to drink out of a tiny pool of water
Go For A Get-Away!!!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
We recently witnessed an incredible event at the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park. A fish eagle landed on the bank of the dam and stood for a while. Then it suddenly took off,
The Biggest Bird!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Biggest Bird In The World! Several years ago, we visited the Oudtshoorn district in South Africa, well known for the many large Ostrich farms in the area. We stood behind a fence watching the many
A Fabulous Family Outing!- Article by Gareth Jones
A Fabulous Family Outing In The Nairobi National Park! With the upcoming holidays approaching, many families are looking for activities that will result in great memories and a wonderful family time together. Planning your family outing
The Stealth Striker!! – Article by Gareth Jones
The Stealth Striker Of The Nairobi National Park It was a cold, dark, moonless night as the little baby shrub hare followed its mother to find suitable food to satisfy their hunger. One moment “mom” was
The Nose Knows!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Nose Knows: The Language Of Smell I find it incredible to note how many wonderful creatures have a very powerful sense of smell. As many of us are aware, in the wild, all the senses
The Young Ones!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Young Ones Of Nairobi National Park There is something, very special, about new life. In the wild, irrespective of if the particular young of the species is a herbivore or a predating carnivore, there is
Nurturing The Forest!! – Article by Gareth Jones
Nurturing The Forest - Nairobi National Park In the last three months of 2021, a wonderful plan to plant close to 900 trees on a neglected section of the original Nairobi Greenline swung into action. It
Wild Striped Equines!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Wild Striped Equines Of Nairobi National Park It was getting hot in the car as the sun rose high overhead. As we rounded a corner, a herd of magnificently patterned creatures stood in the road, they
Pipe Lions & Sign Lions!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Pipe Lions & Sign Lions Of The Nairobi National Park! Recently, I was driving in the Athi basin on some of the newly reconstructed roads. I was with two international visitors who were really enjoying their
FRANK & LYN!!! – Article by Gareth Jones
The Tale Of Frank & Lyn! Lyn waited patiently as a new day dawned. It had been a very lonely night as Frank did not come home. Lyn became increasingly concerned at sunrise, and she began
Birds, Birds & More Birds!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Birds Of Nairobi National Park! As I sat thinking of the amazing diversity of bird species in the tiny Nairobi National Park, the idea came to me to check the global records. Well, a bit of
The Good Safaritans!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Good Safaritans Of The Nairobi National Park! One thing that has always touched me in life, is when people help those in need, especially when they expect nothing in return. Many people know the biblical
Holiday Moments!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Holiday Moments In The Park! Well, 2021 has seemingly flown past and it is now the time at the end of the year, when families usually want to spend quality time together, either at home or
ALIVE@75!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Alive@75 - Celebrating The Nairobi National Park! In 1898, the Uganda Railway project reached a point where there was a swampy section at the railway marker of “mile 326”. The water was deemed clean and fresh
Our Friends The Bats!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Our Friends The Bats Of Nairobi National Park Sometimes, there are times when we really slow down to look for the really small things. One day near the hippo pools, our reward came in the form
Just Dust!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Just Dust In The Nairobi National Park I watched as a large cloud of rust coloured dust arose from the hot dry plains driven by a seemingly desperate surge of wind. After spending an entire day
No Need For Speed!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
No Need For Speed In The Nairobi National Park Some time ago, I drove through the park after a long tiring day at work. I was starting to feel more relaxed after a pleasant drive through
Are Starlings Darlings? – Article by Gareth Jones
Starlings Of The Nairobi National Park When visiting the various National parks in Kenya, it is difficult not to see various species of starlings. The Nairobi National Park is one of the parks that has
Open Bill Thrill!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Open Bill Thrill - Nairobi National Park As we approached the Athi basin dam early one morning, I slowed the vehicle down to a crawl speed in the hope that my arrival would not alarm any
GO RHINO GO!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
GO RHINO GO - The African Rhinos! It is always a thrill to see Rhino in the wild, just a few days ago I saw some White Rhino peacefully grazing in the park. That reminded me
The “Speckletacular” Cats! – Article by Gareth Jones
The “Speckletacular” Cats: The Nairobi Servals When driving in the Nairobi National Park, always be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. It is good to drive with your camera ON!
Nairobi Lion Days!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Nairobi Lion Days: The Lions Of The Nairobi National Park! Starting as an idea with a humble beginning in 2013 World Lion Day has continued as the brainchild of co-founders Dereck and Beverly Joubert, a husband-and-wife
The Unsung Heroes!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Unsung Heroes Of Wildlife As I arrived at the east gate of the Nairobi National Park, I glanced at the wall, and there in bold print was a sign with a clear message from the
Interesting Symbiotic Relationships!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Interesting Symbiotic Relationships In The Nairobi National Park We observed a large herd of buffalo drinking water and wallowing at the Embakasi dam, however, we were fascinated by the presence of many red-billed and yellow-billed oxpeckers
The Speedy Antelopes!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Speedy Antelopes Of The Nairobi National Park On a recent Sunday afternoon drive while making slow progress towards the Athi basin we saw mixed herds of Thomson's gazelle (tommies) and Grant's gazelle near the No
The Sandgrouse Safari!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Sandgrouse Safari At The Nairobi National Park After another dry and dusty night, three tiny little black-faced sandgrouse chicks began to “cheep-cheep” to their parents that they were getting very thirsty. The sun was just
The Creatures Voice!- Article by Gareth Jones
Be "The Creatures Voice" Of The Nairobi National Park!!! In December 2021 The Nairobi National Park will hopefully celebrate 75 years since being gazette in December 1946. Since the humble beginning, when Mervyn Cowie was
Lumps & Bumps!- Article by Gareth Jones
Lumps & Bumps In The Nairobi National Park Over some years, I have noted that there seem to be more animals with abnormal growths in the Nairobi National Park than I have seen in other national
The Lily Trotters – Article by Gareth Jones
The Lily Trotters Of Nairobi National Park We sat quietly at the hyena dam, after about 10 minutes of waiting the wildlife began to behave naturally. A pair of African Jacanas (Actophilornis Africanus) emerged from the
Lion Love!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
LION LOVE AT THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK It was early on a cool morning when we found a mating pair of lions near No16 and the Leopard Cliffs. The male was in his prime and is
The Importance Of Biomass – Article by Gareth Jones
The Importance Of Biomass At The NNP - Written by Gareth Jones We all need the energy to survive in the world, wild animals who eat plant species can only survive and thrive if there is
Croc Shock!!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - CROC SHOCK!!! - By GARETH JONES It was a cold cloudy morning as I sat quietly at the Hyena dam, waiting and watching to see what bird action there was. Suddenly a
The Sosian Serval!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Sosian Serval Spotted In The Nairobi National Park When driving in the Nairobi National Park, always be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. It is good to drive with
The Great Escape!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Great Escape! Early one morning while driving through the park, I suddenly had a “flashback moment” of a traumatic incident that happened to me during the post-election violence on the morning of Monday 14th
Sandgrouse Safari Moments!! – Article by Gareth Jones
Sandgrouse Safari Moment In The Nairobi National Park After another dry and dusty dark night, three tiny little black-faced sandgrouse chicks began to “cheep-cheep” to their parents that they were getting very thirsty. The sun
The Call Of Africa!- Article by Gareth Jones
The Call Of Africa By Nairobi National Park's Raptors Nearly two years ago we witnessed an incredible event at the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park. A fish eagle landed on the bank of
Interesting Natural Relationships – Article by Gareth Jones
Interesting Natural Relationships Within The Nairobi National Park We observed a large herd of buffalo drinking water and wallowing at the Embakasi dam, however, I was fascinated by the presence of many red-billed and yellow-billed oxpeckers.
Lions Of Nairobi!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Lions Of Nairobi That Live In The Nairobi National Park For thousands of years, lions have roamed the area we call Nairobi today. Humans have also co-existed with wildlife in this area for thousands of years.
Hunting For Treasure- Article by Gareth Jones
Hunting For Treasure In The Nairobi National Park On Sunday 30th of August 2020, a number of people participated in a “treasure hunt” organized by the Friends of Nairobi National Park ( FoNNaP). For those who
The Water Beasts- Article by Gareth Jones
The Water Beasts - Hippos Early one morning many years ago, we drove along a fairly remote stretch of track along the Tsavo River. We rounded a tight bend in thick bush and drove into an
Cows & Cats – Article by Gareth Jones
COWS & CATS OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK As we arrived at the dam next to no 9 Junction, a massive herd of buffalo could be seen spread out wide from the dam across the valley.
The Log Mess Mudster!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
THE LOG MESS MUDSTER OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK After more than 6 months of rains, the park is looking very verdant with plants growing in abundance and flowers everywhere, however, the road network has been
The Green Lungs- Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI’S REGAL OUR FORESTS ARE GREEN LUNGS!! - By GARETH JONES After good rains, new life often emerges in many ways. Flowers blossom with bright splashes of colour, standing out magnificently against the green surroundings and
The Guardians Of Nature!! – Article by Gareth Jones
Be The Guardians Of Nature & Protect The Nairobi National Park! The Nairobi National Park will hopefully celebrate 75 years since being gazetted, in December 2021, however many people are currently greatly concerned about the proposed
Beautiful Bee-Eaters- Article by Gareth Jones
BEAUTIFUL BEE-EATERS OF NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK A car stopped next to me and asked ‘Where are the lions?’ I answered them in the way I often do and said “Well actually, I usually pray before going
Our Friends The Bats!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
OUR FRIENDS THE BATS OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Sometimes, there are times when we really slow down to look for the really small things. One morning as we drove slowly down the hill towards the
Eat Out Of Eden!- By Gareth Jones
EAT OUT OF EDEN – LIFESTYLE! - A HEALTHY TESTIMONIAL by Gareth Jones I do not believe in diets because they are almost always passing fads, that doesn’t work. I personally have battled with a number
Big Bird Lecture!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
Big Bird Lecture In The Nairobi National Park Very early one morning I drove towards the Hyena dam. Just then I saw a pair of grey crowned cranes standing on top of a tall acacia tree.
The Kings!- Article by Gareth Jones
THE KINGS OF THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK In August 2007 I drove along the road that goes along a stream towards no. 4 junction, as I rounded a corner, suddenly there was a strikingly majestic lion
The Green Scene!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
THE GREEN SCENE!!! - MERU NATIONAL PARK With the heavy rains in many parts of Kenya this year, many people had to revise their planned accommodation in the national parks during the Christmas holidays. I decided
Enjoying Your Family Safari – Article by Gareth Jones
ENJOYING YOUR FAMILY SAFARI - SPENDING YOUR HOLIDAYS IN THE WILD! This time of year with the Christmas holidays in full swing, many families are travelling to various vacation destinations within Kenya. Naturally, the lure of
A TREE-MENDOUS Treat – Article by Gareth Jones
A TREE-MENDOUS Treat In The Nairobi National Park! Early one cloudy morning we ventured into the park, I decided to drive into the Kingfisher picnic spot area. As we rounded a corner suddenly there was a
A Wonderful Family Outing – Article by Gareth Jones
A Wonderful Family Outing In The Nairobi National Park! With the holidays now in full swing, many families are looking for activities that will result in great memories and wonderful family time together.
Nairobi Lakes – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI LAKES - WET, WILD & WONDERFUL!!! - By GARETH JONES Let us just imagine for a moment …We parked near the main gate with a new sign that stated “WELCOME TO NAIROBI LAKES NATIONAL PARK”,
The Unsung Hero – Mervyn Cowie!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK: THE UNSUNG HERO – MERVYN COWIE!!! - By GARETH JONES In 1898 the Uganda Railway project reached a point where there was a swampy section at the railway marker of “mile 326”. The
The World Of Ants!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - THE WORLD OF ANTS!! - By GARETH JONES My vehicle stopped suddenly near the Kingfisher picnic site, in front me a moving mass snaked its way across the road, a closer inspection
Lake Nakuru National Park!! – Article by Gareth Jones
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK - WORTH A VISIT!! - By GARETH JONES For many years we have enjoyed occasional weekend visits to Lake Nakuru National Park. It is indeed a wonderful place to escape from the
Magnificent Meru!! – Article by Gareth Jones
MERU NATIONAL PARK: 'MAGNIFICENT MERU' - By GARETH JONES The alarm clock buzzed at 04h00, we rapidly awoke and packed a few remaining items into our car and left Nairobi just after 05H00. I always try
Panthera Leo!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK'S LIONS ALSO KNOWN AS PANTHERA LEO - By GARETH JONES For thousands of years, lions (Panthera leo) have roamed the area we call Nairobi today. Humans have also co-existed with wildlife in this
Nearly Next Door!! – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - NEARLY NEXT DOOR!! - By GARETH JONES The alarm clock buzzed at 05h00 as we awoke to a new day and arrived at the gate just after 06H00. On a number of
The Safari Samaritans – Article by Gareth Jones
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK - THE SAFARI SAMARITANS - BY GARETH JONESOne thing that has always touched me in life, is when people help those in need, especially when they expect nothing in return. Many people
Babies & Ivory! – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI ELEPHANTS - BABIES & IVORY - BY GARETH JONES Recently whilst stopping at the Ivory burn site with a visitor, I noticed some lesser striped swallows on top of one of the piles of
The Nairobi Servals! – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI SERVALS - A SERVAL FAMILY! - BY GARETH JONES When driving in the Nairobi National Park, always be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. It is good to
Lions On Signs – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI LIONS - LIONS ON SIGNS - BY GARETH JONES Recently I saw many vehicles parked along the main road near No. 2 junction, so instead of joining the “lion jam”, I watched from a
A Green Scene – Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI VEGETATION- A GREEN SCENE! - BY GARETH JONES After some good rain, new life often blossoms in many ways. Flowers blossom with bright splashes of colour, standing out magnificently against the green surroundings, and
The Nairobi Lions- Article by Gareth Jones
THE NAIROBI LIONS - FAME BY NAME!! - BY GARETH JONES A vervet monkey chattered the local bush news from a nearby treetop. Uharaaw rolled over and laughed as hard as a full grown lion can
The Lone Lioness – “Mica The Mighty”- Article by Gareth Jones
MICA THE MIGHTY! - BY GARETH JONES For many years my chosen route to work and back was through the Nairobi National Park, and as a result I have had thousands of game drives. Naturally I
Good Gnus From Nairobi National Park – Article by Gareth Jones
THE GNU’S NEWS! - BY GARETH JONES Every new day brings something different. Very early one fine morning about ten years ago, I approached the No7-Karen Primary dam, I noticed a jackal at the water, the
SECRETIVE SERVAL CATS – Article by Gareth Jones
Secretive Serval Cats Spotted In Nairobi National Park - Written by Gareth Jones When driving in the Nairobi National Park, always be prepared for those “suddenly” moments when you see something rare or special. It is
Christmas Fun In The Sun – Article by Gareth Jones
? FUN IN THE SUN! ? The alarm clock buzzed at 05h00 as we awoke to a new day and arrived at the gate just after 06H00. The master plan was to spend the entire day in
Nairobi’s Struggling Lions – Article by Gareth Jones
For thousands of years lions have roamed the area we call Nairobi today. Humans have also co-existed with wildlife in this area for thousands of years. However within the last 120 years there have been
Our Fantastic Feathered Friends – Article by Gareth Jones
A car stopped next to me and asked ‘Where are the lions?’ I answered them in the way I often do and said “Well actually I usually pray before going to the park, that God
FISH EAGLE MISTAKES CROCODILE FOR A “BIG FISH”!!!- Article by Gareth Jones
We recently witnessed an incredible event at the Hyena dam in the Nairobi National Park. A fish eagle landed on the bank of the dam and stood for a while. Then it suddenly took off,