JAGUAR SPOTTING!!! When I first arrived to the park, I informed the guards that I was planning a solo overnight trek and expressed my concerns about me vs the cats. The guard assuaged my fears by saying, you look fit and healthy, you can wrestle one. Um, ok, so off I went. After hiking 6 hours into the jungle, I turned the corner and there he was, about 20 feet ahead on the trail. We both stood totally still and stared at one another as if time had stopped... Until he started walking quickly toward me! Adrenaline surging, heart racing, knees knocking, I put out my arms and yelled turn around! He stopped, stared at me some more, and clearly super intimidated by my trembling voice, casually sauntered back into the lush forest. I have been so incredibly privileged to have seen many big cats, including jaguars, in the wild... But always from the protection of a vehicle or boat. Standing face to face with a creature so beautiful yet dangerous, captivating yet terrifying, was a rush unlike anything Ive ever experienced. I am forever changed because of this encounter and more confident than ever in my lifes purpose to protect these amazing animals. But, after that, I was done. Fully appreciating that there would be no hope for me wrestling a jaguar, every twig snapping made me jump and I was completely paranoid about a sneak attack. Ive returned to my cabin where I will sleep in peace. While I am sure I am going to miss the presence of friends, the parties, and a midnight smooch with a cute guy tonight, I cant have dreamed of a better way to end this year. I hope all of you also go out with a shebang, doing whatever it is that you love most!
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 22:24:07 +0000
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