An African Sunrise in the Simien Mountains, Ethiopia

Simien Lodge

This Lodge in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia is a great place. The views and landscapes here are incredible.

The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony

This local coffee place in Addis Ababa is incredible. The coffee here is like no other place in the world.

Gelada Mountain Monkeys

I was able to get close enough to take a photo of this Gelada male. These monkeys make approximately 32 different sounds and calls to communicate- more than any other non-human primate.

Gelada Mountain Monkeys in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

One of my greatest experiences has been observing the Gelada monkeys. They have a diversity of complex social behavior patterns.

Timkat celebration

I was fortunate to be in Gondar, Ethiopia during the Timkat (Epiphany) celebration. It was very exciting.

Awash, Ethiopia

I met the Oromo people in Awash. They were very kind and friendly.

Hamadryas Baboons in Awash National Park- Ethiopia

Another experience checked off in my bucket list- Observing wild Hamadryas Baboons in Africa. I was astounded the other day when I saw hundreds of baboons on the side of the cliff. As an animal trainer, I have been around these amazing creatures, but always wanted to see them in their natural habitat. Baboons are a patriarchal society. The social units are divided into harems, units, and bands (Awash National Park- Ethiopia)

African Wart Hog

I stopped dead in my tracks yesterday when I saw this African Wart Hog in Awash National Park in Ethiopia. Male this size have been known to drive away adult lions who try to hunt them.

Male Ostrich at Awash Falls Lodge- Ethiopia

I am staying at the Awash Falls Lodge, and they have two amazing young Ostriches here. The National Park is home to approximately 474 species of birds.

Wild Hyenas In Awash National Park, Ethiopia

I arrived here safely in Addis, Ababa and traveled to Awash, which is located in the central-east part of the country. I was able to observe a pack of hyenas with their young at the Fentale Caves. This was a dream come true for me. Hyena packs are a matriarchal society, and females are born with a high level of testosterone. I found the mothers to be very caring and attentive of their young.