The African explorer stopped his topless Land Rover when he saw the approaching grass fire. Hundreds of terrified baboons were running directly towards him.

Baboons lighten their bodies when running from danger.

After they leapt over his vehicle and continued fleeing, he deeply regretted leaving his Pith helmet in camp.

Michael Coolen is a composer, actor, performance artist, pianist and writer who lives in Corvallis, Oregon.