a more general term than the specific Billabong , a true waterhole nevertheless can be characterized as a semi-artificial body of water created generally in Africa . Through the action of Topography , water collects to make mud pits in low areas in veldt regions that also play host to Elephant s. Elephants turn these damp low spots into muddy wallows, and through consistent use carry off more of the earth from the low point, deepening it steadily until it holds open water. As long as this use continues, the waterhole persists, and becomes a regular gathering spot for Veldt animals to slake their thirst, and potentially to provide sustenance to Predator s who wait around or in the waterhole. Large Migrating Herds can completely surround a waterhole, and it is not uncommon to see completely normally unassociated animals rubbing shoulders.
a waterhole or '''watering hole''' is also a generalized term for a meeting place, a place to get alcoholic beverages, or a locally popular hangout. Similar in context to a Gasthaus or restaurant in small villages in Germany, there is a local crowd that has a tradition of attendance, hence the combined meaning of a meeting place and a comfortable local hangout.
