This year, the flood arrived late — about two months behind its usual schedule — and was less intense than previous years. It lasted only three months before evaporation, exposing the white river sand as the waters dried up. Despite the parched flood plains, November provided fantastic animal sightings. The hippos, mainly affected by the reduction in water levels, were left stranded in small pools where their backs were barely submerged. Some managed to find their way to the small pond nearby, which had water for the animals to drink. This pond became a crucial gathering spot for birds and animals, offering them much-needed relief as they quenched their thirst in the increasingly dry conditions.
Thankfully, the rainy season officially began, though it appeared as sparse as in previous years, with heat waves continuing to sweep across the country.
(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!)