Of Man and Beast: Further reflections on a life lived with animals
by Willie Labuschagne
Published by Tracey McDonald Publishers
Step behind the scenes of one of the world’s top ten zoological gardens with Willie Labuschagne in his captivating second memoir, Of Man and Beast. As director during a time of intense political change and unprecedented challenges in South Africa, Willie recounts his wild journey with humour, suspense and unflinching honesty.
From managing the needs of over 9 000 animals during the first-ever massive staff strike, to navigating the intricate politics of acquiring unique species as diplomatic gifts for Nelson Mandela, Willie’s stories are as enlightening as they are entertaining. He shares thrilling close encounters with wild animals, and the light-hearted moments that make every day in the zoo an adventure.
Willie’s experiences extend beyond the zoo’s boundaries – from an intimidating passage through Checkpoint Charlie in 1987 to life-threatening situations in the depths of the Congolese jungle.
His compelling narrative underscores the pivotal and indispensable role zoos play in conservation and discusses their evolution into ‘biological gardens’, inviting readers to understand the crucial importance of controlled breeding in conservation and the preservation of endangered species.
