I love it when a well-worn phrase comes to life …. this time it’s “cheeky monkeys”. And there is no doubt that the vervet monkeys around our camp at Matopos were very cheeky and intent on some serious monkey business. They may look innocent in these photos but it was all hands on deck to prevent them stealing our breakfast. We mostly succeeded in thwarting their attempts … until the last morning. Like your knowing pet at home, these monkeys recognise what packing means: for them it signals that it’s time for a full-on onslaught and a last ditch attempt to salvage some respectability about their cunning capabilities. As our outdoor breakfast around the fire came to a close, the monkeys gradually encircled the space and tested our stamina and focus. We joked about having to make a last stand by encircling the BBQ and facing outwards. But packing gradually lured us one-by-one to other tasks. And as our last man standing (and last man eating) cut his final morsel of steak and turned briefly to acknowledge some comment from a colleague, in that fatal moment he relinquished the prize to the swiftest of the cheeky monkeys. Close all windows, shut all doors and guard your camp when the vervets are around.
parrygraphs 
Spence asked if that was you with a grey fur Cape on? Cheeky just like these little critters…….
All those beautiful moneys and other animals so close to you. What a wonderful experience. xx
Ooooo. Your man is a cheeky monkey too. Yes, I am short and more wizened than when I was young and, of course, you know that I do like to wear a grey possum cape. But come on, Spence! My eyes are much more blue/grey. There is at least 1 point of distinction. xkx
The comment below was meant to go under Lee!
There was too much to post in the blog. There were also bush bucks and mongoose and startlingly coloured sun birds. But I will put up a few photos of the rhinos. xkx
lol cheeky monkeys lol…i cant stop laughing when i was reading and think about the scene on my mind about those monkeys were trying to steal.you food…lol.. looks like you are having fun in narure with other earthlings on this planet.. loved your diary dear sister.. thanks for sharing. we love you.be safexxx
I am very safe. No need to worry. I have to keep the windows closed where I’m working too. These monkeys are everywhere and definitely not shy! xkx
Must be related to Kookaburras 😀