Your Comments and Our Amazing Answers

Ask some amazing questions and we'll give you some amazing answers. It's as simple as that.

We are in civics class and just viewed your pictures and blogs.  The students want to know if the Grevy zebra and plains zebra ever mate. 
 - Terry S.
Holden, MO

They do!  Though the two species do have different physical appearance, social structure, gestation period and subtle (or not so subtle) breeding behaviors.

What type of food have you been eating?  Do you miss your Pepsi One?
 - Becky P.
St. Louis, MO

We eat very well!  All the food is homemade.  Breakfast is similar to a typical American breakfast: cereal, eggs, fruit, juice (called squash here), coffee, etc.  Lunch involves leftovers or sandwiches.  Sometimes they give us these really small sausages that are just amazing.  And dinner is a meat dish, veggies and salad.  We've had goat here, which is the only "culture shock" we've had to deal with so far.  And yes, I miss Pepsi One!  But they have Diet Coke here, so that'll have to make due until I get back home.

Is your fieldwork strictly behavior observation, and if so, what behaviors are significant?  I hope you're having a great time!
- Greg P.
St. Louis, MO

We do lots of different kinds of fieldwork, which is why this trip is so great.  You get a little taste of everything.  We've done zebra identification, censusing and behavioral observation.  We look for interactions: nursing, grooming, self-grooming, grooming another zebra, standing (at rest), vigilant (standing vigilant with head and ears up), grazing (eating grass), drinking, walking, standing and graze/walk (eating grass while walking).  All very exciting stuff (that's not a sarcastic remark - we love it!)

What's up Dad?  Does everybody enjoy your great sense of humor?  How many pictures have you taken?
 - Eric P.
St. Louis, MO

P.S. I'm guessing 8,000.
P.S.S.  I love you!!!!!

I love you too Eric!  And no, I haven't taken 8,000 pictures.  I've taken about 8 million!! :)

You are with my son Josh!  He does not have a web site up, but I checked yours out and found out what he has been up to!  Enjoy your trip of a lifetime and tell Josh we love him!
 - Terry S.
Holden, MO

We told Josh that he was famous on the internet - he got quite excited!  Thanks for checking us out! 

A question about zebra stripes: are they black on white or white on black?
 - Nicki S.
Waydown, NC

A common question!  They have a white belly so it would seem to us that a zebra is white with black stripes.

What other animals besides Grevy's zebra are you seeing?  Are there lots of birds too?
 - Lynne P.
St. Louis, MO

Warthogs, Grant's gazelles, cheetahs, plains zebras, vervet monkey...and so many birds, over 60 species so far!  Thanks for asking Mom :)

So what is the weather like?
 - Meagan R.
Hazelwood, MO

We've been really lucky - weather has been in the mid-80's during the day and dips into the 60's at night. Really nice weather makes it great to see the animals!

I think it's only fair to reveal your age Dave.  What's with the question marks???
 - Scooter
St. Louis, MO

When you get to be an old scrooge like me, you're allowed to hide your true age!  

A few well wishes from our "fans."  Thank you!

My daughter and granddaughter will enjoy following your experiences. Thanks for sharing!
 - Betty
Winter Park, FL

Have a wonderful and safe trip. You deserve it!
 - Darlene S.
St. Louis, MO

Dave, didn't your mother tell you to put on a coat when there is snow on the ground?  On the other hand, I guess you are preparing for your trip where a coat will not be necessary.  We expect a full report and pictures upon your return.
 - Parker F.
Kaanapali Beach, HI

Wow!  Love your pictures and comments!!  I'm right there with you in spirit, David.  Keep counting those birds!
 - Lynne P.
St. Louis, MO