Down streaming ...

A little further downstream from yesterday’s post and the view across the Karkloof Stream down towards the falls gorge becomes less pastoral and somewhat more dramatic. With lichen covered rocks casually strewn by nature forming small pools and islands and the natural wild African grasses contrasting with the man-made forests of pine and gum the colour palette is subtle and appealing. On one of the small rocky islands were the ashen remains of a small impromptu braai-pit, and I can only imagine how atmospheric the event must have been on a clear summer evening – Midlands life at its most relaxing.

I did take an alternative shot to this using yesterday’s framing suggestion, but I feel that there are occasions and views, such as this one, where not using that technique better conveys the open vistas and vastness of the great outdoors, especially when using a portrait image orientation. The pool and grasses in the foreground create enough visual interest to allow the framing rule to be broken.

Howick Falls & Gorge 3

Continuing through the undergrowth of the forest leading down into the Howick Falls Gorge, the sound of the falls is hardly noticeable. But, I do now know what a babbling brook is - for the Karkloof stream babbles alongside the path for much of the way. River otters can apparently be seen in the waters if you're lucky enough to spot them. Also present are rock hyrax (dassies), vervet monkeys (not to be fed) and bushbuck. Bird life is not plentiful under the canopy, but from time to time you'll spot a feathered friend darting through the growth, and eagles are known to prey on the smaller mammal inhabitants. 
Do take time to also appreciate the smaller wonders of nature. Some of the most elaborate spider webs I've ever seen were here, and myriad multi-coloured insects scurry beneath the decomposing mulch of fallen leaves and bark. The ferns and fungi are plentiful too and often provide a surprising colour burst against the greens and browns of the foliage (and the mud). Coming from the Falls' viewing platform it is interesting to note how different the vegetation is through this east facing (and therefore shadier) side of the gorge. The sunnier, warmer and drier western facing side tends to have more Paperbark Acacia grassland and aloe vegetation. Sadly a number of alien invader plants threaten the indigenous forests especially the vigorous and rapid seeding balloon vine.
Again (as in yesterday's posting) the lighting on this walk can be challenging, and I found my best shots were taken where either the light filters in rays through the trees, or where the shade was solid allowing a consistent light reading.