Somebody or something is watching us!

A herd of Sri Lankan axis deer have a discussion

Bob: Bob, there’s a man pointing something at us!
Bob: Don’t worry Bob, it’s one of those peaceful photographer chappies. Not a pernicious poacher trying to hunt us or a lousy logger who destroys our precious tree cover.
Bob: Bob, I’ve been wondering… why are we all called Bob?
Bob: Well Bob, it’s to confuse the pesky predators. Just like how we all stick together and then scatter when a lowlife Leopard, snivelling Sloth Bear or jeering Jackal attacks us. We look alike, sound alike and are named alike! Confusion!!!
Bob: But Bob, here’s the thing. I’m a female. Also, we hang out in groups of 10 to 60 sometimes. I think we need unique names.
Bob: Shush Bob! Don’t mess with evolution. Next thing you know, you will want to exchange your spots for stripes, and eat messy meat instead of glorious grass, lovely leaves and fabulous fruit.
Bob: Eww no Bob, never! By the way, I noticed you love adjectives… a little too much if you ask me.
Bob: No one asked you Bob. Besides, if the lovely langurs, perfect peacock, whimsically wild buffalo, and sombre sambar deer we graze with don’t have a problem, why should you?
Bob: Hmmm alright, alright. Bob… did one of the other Bob’s learn to snorkel?
Bob: No Bob. Why?
Bob: Then what’s that thing in the water coming towards us really fast?
Bob: It’s a conniving Crocodile! Scatter, scatter!

Story of the Photo

Even though Sri Lankan axis deer prefer grazing during early morning and evening, they can be found at waterholes almost anytime. They can also be seen near the Mahoora Tented Safari Camp in Yala, as the camp is situated by the border of the Park. This picture was taken by Dilum in the Park at a watering hole - during a safari.