What is a savannah?
A savannah is a tropical grassland with scattered trees.
-The Interior or the Rupununi Savannah as it is sometimes called, is
located in the south-western section of Guyana, near to the border
with Brazil.
Climate of the interior Savannah
There are two seasons in this region 6 months dry season (October to April) and 6 months wet season (May to September)
Activities during the dry season
During the dry season this region experiences drought
- The ground becomes parched.
- Grass and trees wither and die.
- The intense heat of the sun often ignites the parched grass causing savannah and bush fires. these fires can kills animals and cause air pollution
- Much of the vegetation is destroyed and cattle are scattered.
- lack of drinking water
- cattle die fro lack of water and the often stray looking for water
ACTIVITIES during the dry seasons
- There is heavy rainfall that floods homes and villages
- Creeks and rivers rise rapidly, causing floods.
- Roads become impassable.
- Boats are used for transportation.
- Water borne diseases spread among people and cattle
- Crop planting by women and children is usually done.
- Crops planted include cassava, yams, sweet potatoes, beans, peanuts, and corn.
- Crops are planted in high forested areas called “bush islands.”
Care for animals
- Animals, particularly cattle, are moved to higher ground.
- This prevents them from contracting waterborne diseases such as foot rot.
- Men must also watch carefully for jaguars and other wild animals.
Hunting and food preservation
- Men hunt animals such as deer and wild hogs, which are often trapped by flood waters.
- Villagers co-operate in cutting up and smoking meat to preserve it.
Craft production
- Women and men produce craft items such as baskets, bags, hats, and furniture.