Welcome to the Jungle

Aug 1, 2011 | Sumatra

In three wide swings with its massive arms, the orangutan I had been observing from a distance closed the gap between us and landed in the tree beside me with a thud. It was so close, I could hear it breathing. Just as when I encountered the backcountry grizzly bear...

Orangutans and Tourists at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Jul 8, 2010 | Borneo

After being attacked by monkeys a few times already, even here in Malaysia, I’m not normally too thrilled at the prospect of going in search of them. It’s not that I don’t think they are cute, it’s that one scratch from their poo-flingers or...

Tioman Island

Jul 30, 2009 | Malaysia

A large monkey stepped out on the trail in front of me and showed me some nasty teeth.  I could hear the rest of his clan making their moves around me getting into position. Not again. I reached down to grab a nearby stick and he made his move to grab my water bottle....

Man Eating Lizards on Rinca Island — Finally!

May 25, 2009 | Indonesia (Not Bali)

Update: I actually won a Solas Best of Travel Writing award for my experience with the Komodo dragons on Rinca Island. (it’s a better read than below) “Hissssss….” I was staring down a full sized female Komodo dragon just a few feet from her...