Don Ker

Another book which gives an idea of the early hunting days in the Serengeti is Africa Speaks by Paul L Hoefler [the late Don Ker, of Ker and Downey was a lorry driver on the hunt described.] Hoefler's book is the story of a hunting and filming safari in the Serengeti in 1928, and seems fairly typical of the exploitation of that area in the days before conservation.

I had just arrived at Banagi in November 1956 ....

One of my first safaris was to accompany the Professor [Pearsall] on his surveys in the Western Corridor. His safari was conducted by Don Ker, the well-known professional Hunter, and always one of the Serengeti's most ardent supporters. Also on this safari were Hugh Elliott (later Sir Hugh), Dr. P.J Greenway the eminent East African botanical expert, and G.H. Swynnerton, Chief Game Warden of Tanganyika.

Another bit of trivia for you: Sid Downey, Donald Ker and Elizabeth Sanger each donated 2,000/- for the construction of three causeways across the Seronera River to allow visitors access into and out of Park HQ at Seronera. That was a huge amount of money then. Anyway, back to my story�".