avatarSuntonu Bhadra

Summary

The web content is a photojournalistic account of a visit to the African Lion Safari Park in Hamilton, Canada, showcasing the beauty and behavior of wildlife in a managed environment.

Abstract

The article recounts a personal experience at the African Lion Safari Park in Hamilton, Canada, where the author, a newcomer to Canada, captured moments of wildlife in various settings. Despite the animals being in a controlled habitat, the author reflects on the essence of nature and the ethical implications of wildlife in captivity. The visit prompted a philosophical discussion with the author's wife about the purity of nature and the impact of human intervention on the natural order. The author's photography, albeit limited by novice skills, attempts to capture the spirit of the animals, including birds, giraffes, lions, and other species, in their simulated natural surroundings. The images depict animals in repose, play, and interaction, taken with a Nikon D90 camera. The author concludes by expressing gratitude for the experience and a desire for the well-being of the readers, signing off with a note of appreciation for the exploration of the images.

Opinions

  • The author believes that nature's elements are best appreciated in their original habitat, suggesting a preference for wildlife conservation in natural settings over captivity.
  • There is a sense of conflict or discomfort in enjoying animals in caged conditions, as it is seen as a disruption of nature's intent.
  • The author has decided against visiting safari parks or zoos since the trip, indicating a shift in perspective regarding the ethical treatment of animals.
  • Despite the controlled environment, the author acknowledges the glittering elements of nature that can still be observed, suggesting a complex appreciation for wildlife regardless of the setting.
Image courtesy: the writer (along with all the images added in the story)

African Lion Safari Park Snapshots Taken On A Past Summer Day

nature’s elements in caged conditions

It was around four years ago when I visited the African Lion Safari Park in Hamilton, Canada. As a new-comer in Canada, I wanted to explore whatever opportunities were there in front of me. So, when some friends invited me to join on tour, along with the time-slot to visit the safari park, we (my wife and I) accepted the invitation.

After the tour, I had a conversation with my wife about the time we spend there. We both realized that nature is best in its core, and when we displace the elements for our pleasure, it destroys the core purpose nature intended in the first place: the living should thrive in its original habitat. We haven’t visited any safari park or zoo since then.

Yet, even inside the caged arena, the elements of nature glittered, although my novice photography skill couldn’t capture the essence in true form.

Birds, with a green background

Birds, chilling in the hot summer, near the water. Image courtesy: by the writer
Some water-splash moments! Image courtesy: by the writer

‘Hey, you!’ look from the giraffes, touching the sky

‘Hey, you!’ Image courtesy: by the writer

Resting Lions

‘Zzzzzzzz’ moments! Image courtesy: by the writer
And, the resting cubs. Image courtesy: by the writer

Roaming across

‘Open Caged’ roaming. Image courtesy: by the writer
‘Open Cage’ roaming. Image courtesy: by the writer

The resting gangs

Inside the shades. Image courtesy: by the writer
Outside the shades, resting. Image courtesy: by the writer

Horns to respect

Leading. Image courtesy: by the writer

Playing with the water

Pond is their playground, too! Image courtesy: by the writer

A curious creature

‘Hello!’ Image courtesy: by the writer

Posing for the photographs!

Dashing postures. Image courtesy: by the writer
‘Done!!!’, the ending remark. Image courtesy: by the writer

Camera used: Nikon D90, with 18–105mm lens.

Thanks for exploring the images. Stay safe and well. Best. Suntonu Bhadra ▪ January 2021

Photography
Travel
Animals
Safari
Nonfiction
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