June 3, 2010
This morning I really hated to pack my bags and leave the Annimalai Tiger Reserve. Its towering bamboo stands, peaceful setting and intensely beautiful landscape was spellbinding. This forest was different from the others I’ve visited. The late afternoon haze draped over the trees like a delicate silk scarf. Upon entering the forest I felt strangely transported from the present.
The Rest House that was arranged for my stay sat in a prime location on a hill, overlooking a grassy area grazed by wildlife. It was build by the British in 1926, and had a fine air about it. The large high ceiling rooms and expansive porch was delicious.
After dark, when I went outside to shake the caked dirt off my tennis shoes, I heard a rustle coming from behind. Conditioned to the realities of these wild habitats, I silently retreated inside the window lined porch. Darkness prevailed with the exception of a porch light that I had flipped on when I exited.
In moments I saw movement, something was emerging from the dark. It was a full-grown female wild boar. I stood in awe of this chance opportunity to witness the nighttime adventure of this wild and potentially dangerous animal, just outside my reach. I was later told that wild boars have been known to fight off a tiger for up to an hour.
Yes, I had silently hoped the sound maker was an elephant but it is probably best that instead this equally wild but smaller forest inhabitant showed itself. The boar took no notice of me, but went about her business, scouring the ground for something tasty to eat.
I rose with the sun, a new habit that I have developed since arriving on the Asian continent. My nocturnal ways have shifted to meet the pattern of the local people: up early, to bed by 10. No more staying on the computer until 2am!
From my perch on the hilltop, which provides a panoramic view of the mountain (ghate) range, I watched the sun rise, appreciating the birds and other creatures whose vocalizations echoed above the forest canopy. A large family of spotted deer grazed nearby on the immense naturally manicured lawn. Young deer of every size frolicked playfully under the watchful tender eyes of their mothers, while the three males in their midst attentively surveyed the landscape.
Tea was served.
Driving down the mountain gave me time to reflect on the beauty of this biodiverse forest, home to so many endangered and precious animals. The Forest Department is responsible for protecting the forest and its inhabitants. From my perspective, the men on the ground are seriously dedicated to their work. Even as I left the reserve I saw more species of animals I had not already seen. In two days time, I saw wild elephants, wild boar, forest chicken, spotted deer, bonnet monkey, three striped squirrel, samber deer, malabar giant squirrel, unidentified red headed wood pecker and wild hare. And as our vehicle neared the check point, where crossing would mean leaving the mystical world of the forest, a barking deer froze in his tracks just off to the side of the road.
