We located a pangolin during one incredibly magical evening safari.
Pangolins are highly elusive and endangered creatures, often called “living dinosaurs.” Covered in scales and possessing a gentle nature, they are known for their unique ability to curl up into a tight ball for protection. Observing this elusive creature foraging for ants and termites was a true privilege, as pangolins are rarely encountered in the wild due to their nocturnal habits and increasing threats to survival.
Another evening, as the sun started to set, we were enchanted by the sight of an African wild cat gracefully prowling through the grasslands with its lithe movements and piercing gaze. During night safaris, we also located relaxed aardwolves, African civets, African wild cats, serval cats, springhares, and large-spotted genets.
An update on the Kwara African wild dogs
A pack of three wild dogs was active around Splash Camp and we had the privilege of following them on several hunting expeditions and witnessing their feeding. The female appears to have had pups, although we suspect they may not have survived.
We followed the larger pack from Kwara Camp and witnessed their successful hunt of six red lechwes in a lagoon filled with crocodiles and hippos. The chaotic scene drove the hippos into a frenzy while the crocodiles eagerly awaited their opportunity. Later that evening, a smaller pack of five wild dogs chased an impala into the water during our sundowner drinks! Although the wild dogs lost sight of their prey, they patiently waited, and after a few minutes, the impala resurfaced, only to be swiftly taken down by the pack. Two hungry crocodiles emerged from the water, hoping for an easy meal, but the voracious wild dogs left little behind.
Although no den has been discovered on the Kwara side, we suspect some of the packs in the area have given birth, but the pups are still too young to move around freely. In the coming months, we eagerly anticipate the return of the packs with their adorable new additions.
Rising floodwaters and happy hyenas
Animals focused their activities around the channel, where the rising waters bring new life. The start of the flooding season brought a gradual rise in water levels (water that slides into the Okavango Delta all the way from Angola), transforming the landscape and adding an element of intrigue to this ever-changing environment. Despite the influx of floodwater, the Kwara Private Concession experienced dry winter conditions, resulting in the drying up of rain-fed water holes that filled during summer.
Due to less rainfall this year and drying water holes in the north, large herds of buffalo and elephants descended to the channel in search of water. We’ve enjoyed sightings of zebras, tsessebe, kudu, and other general game coming down to Splash Camp for a drink. Additionally, we had the pleasure of observing a large and relaxed herd of sable antelopes nearer to the new 4 Rivers Camp.
While the hyena den at Kwara was not active, a healthy population remained in the area. On one memorable night after a game drive, we witnessed a commotion of hyenas in front of the camp. Two clans came together, resulting in conflict among the members. One hyena was forced to take refuge in the water for an extended period. Another evening, we observed a hyena feeding on a baboon, showcasing their adaptable scavenging behaviour.
Indeed, spotted hyenas were frequently present, particularly near the carcass of an elephant north of Splash Camp. The elephant died earlier this month due to a broken leg, attracting multiple hyenas. We also observed a clash between the hyenas from the northern clan and the Mmaleitho pride over a wildebeest kill. Another hyena clan to the east of Splash camp was seen on a kudu kill, possibly taken by a leopard.
Bold baboons chase a leopard away
Speaking of. A male leopard with a kill was found up in a Sausage tree. To our surprise, a female leopard joined him, and they spent two days feeding together. We had an exciting sighting of a male leopard hunting a reedbuck. Despite the alarm calls from baboons, the determined leopard continued stalking its prey. However, the baboons grew bolder and chased the leopard into the marshes!
The male cheetah, affectionately known as Mr Special, continued to frequent the Bat-eared fox area, and a female cheetah favoured the marshes and occasionally ventured close to Kwara Camp, providing exciting opportunities for guests to observe her graceful movements. Recently, we followed her as she crossed the Kwara floodplains, showcasing her agility and elegance.
We had several sightings of Mr Special around Splash Camp. too and the nearby Hippo Pools area, where he had been absent for some time. We followed him on a successful hunt where he took down an impala. The following morning, with a full belly, he marked his territory around his favourite spot.
(Please note: For the safety of the animals, we do not disclose the precise location of either rhino or pangolin sightings. Accompanying pictures are from our Kwando Photo Library which consists of all your great photo submissions over the years, it may not be the most up to date, but we felt it was worthy of a feature alongside this month’s Sightings Report!)