Mikinydu, 67

Facing Wild animals It was few year ago. We were on a tour in north India, among a group of friends and 2 of my cousines.It was in a jungle camp where you can see wild life face to face, but always with the protection from the wardens and their vans and with strict instruction of do not do this,do not .... bla bla.. bla. It was not stupidness but very exciting when on the second night, we heard wild jungle calls. First impression was tense feelings. When recovered,more than one of us started speculating, joking about it. Then the sounds, growls were mingled with different war calls of more than one animal. One of which definitely was a tiger. It sounded as if it was fighting or hunting a larger/fearful animal. It faded away but still persisted in different corners outside and around the flimsy tents we were accomodated in. Braveness justified stupidity and we pretended to be masters in jungle life. Eventually, bragging members had won the argument over others and we decided not to call wardens but to go out and see what was happening. Carrying torch light that were handy we set out in the dark. As nothing was threatening, we proceeded, crossed the perimeters of the resort and in the actual jungle open to all the beasts. It was the most exciting, strangest feeling I ever had. In those moments, I did not hear some one crying, "Let's go back, do.nt be stupid" and we continued with throbbing hearts, blood rushing through my veins, as I remember, like a hydro-pump, and we reached, what seemed like a river. In the dim moonlight we could see something moving. The one in front stopped in his track and whispered to keep quiet. Yes it was a tiger and a big one for that.Later on the wardens told us that it had had a terrific fight and killed a wild boar. Now we were about to retreat knowing the danger aheaad, but it was too late. That big something, moved with such a speed that all we know, I know was, one of my cousin and me scrample in all directions seeking the safety of the camp.Warden.Sa