Atlantic City Area Veterinarian In South Africa: (Amazing Photos)

I have been in regular contact with Dr. Mark Newkirk, who has been an Atlantic City, New Jersey area Veterinarian for more than 40 years.

Dr. Newkirk is spending his time and talent at the African Wild Dog Research Project in Zululand, South Africa.

About this, Dr. Newkirk told us:

“Dogs inside the pen or "boma" are in isolation pending transferring to a different reserve to start a new pack and create more genetic diversity. Dogs outside the boma are the resident pack,” said Dr. Newkirk.

“The dogs weigh about 40 to 50 pounds, hunt in packs and are the most efficient hunters of all predators, with a success rate of about 80%,” said Newkirk.

Regarding the dogs, Dr. Newkirk has been darting, medicating, collaring and ultimately transferring them to new area to start new pack.

Dr. Newkirk has also encountered lions, rhinoceroses and other majestic animals during his time in South Africa.

We interviewed Dr. Newkirk many times in the run-up to his extended trip to South Africa … which Dr. Newkirk has described as ”the adventure of a lifetime.”

Look at this lion (below), which is perfectly camouflaged and located only 6 feet from the roadway.

The lion is perfectly camouflaged, to the extent that it’s hard to see.

We have interviewed Dr. Newkirk while he is in South Africa and asked about his feelings during his time there.

Dr. Newkirk exclusively shared the following with us:

To be able to see these amazing animals in the wild, and then to participate, in whatever small amount, to help them survive, is something that just touches my heart. I really think this is what I am meant to do for the next phase of my veterinary life!

Here are some more amazing photos: