Category: Lagoon

The stars of our night drives this month were the usual foraging aardwolves, but there were precious pangolin sightings, too!

Even more unusual was the clash of African wild dog packs over an impala prey. Guests witnessed a vicious altercation between hyenas and African wild dogs one morning. The wild dogs, feeding on a freshly killed impala, drew the hyenas’ attention, sparking a ferocious battle over the carcass.

Just when guests thought the excitement had peaked, another pack of wild dogs arrived, chasing away the original pack to claim the prize. This unexpected turn of events made for an unforgettable morning and highlighted the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings.

The one pack of six African wild dogs, visibly full from a recent meal, was also seen resting by Watercut before they moved towards Bee-eater Road.

The lions of Lagoon Camp

October began with thrilling sightings of the resident Holy Pride, which consisted of about 12 lions. A female lion with two adorable cubs, aged around 2 to 4 months, was spotted taking down a warthog in a remarkable display of hunting prowess.

The elusive Mma Mosetlha Pride returned triumphantly to the Kwando Private Concession, showcasing their strength and presence.

Two majestic male lions were also seen resting serenely by Kwena Lagoon. On Badisa Road, two male lions feasted on a sable (this antelope is not typically part of their diet). Meanwhile, along Humbok One Road, the Mma Mosetlha Pride took advantage of a natural opportunity, scavenging on a deceased elephant.

Other lion sightings included remarkable moments at Single Baobab and east of Muddy Waters. One of the three brothers from Lebala wandered onto Lagoon territory with a lioness and her three-month-old cubs, a delightful and unexpected visit.

Along Maheke Road, a den of over 20 spotted hyenas offered guests an incredible appreciation of their social dynamics. The airstrip and Bee-eater Road were also hotspots for hyena sightings.

Regular leopard sightings were recorded along Main Road and Water Affairs Island. A mother leopard with two cubs, aged 4 to 5 months, was frequently spotted along Number 1 Road and Water Affairs Island. They were even seen scavenging on an impala at Upper Kwando. Another unforgettable encounter involved a leopard with an impala carcass along Bee-eater Road.

Large herds of elephants and hippos frequented Lagoon Camp, Water Affairs Island, and the 1st and 2nd lagoons. Buffalo herds, sable antelopes, elands, and roan antelopes were also regularly sighted, along with side-striped jackals. The lagoons and waterways, including the 1st Lagoon, Muddy Waters, and Water Affairs Island, were home to some of the largest crocodiles, sunbathing along the banks or swimming stealthily. Water monitor lizards occasionally appeared, adding to the thrill of the sightings.

(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!) 

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There was lots of action among the different Lagoon Camp prides. One unforgettable sighting occurred when we found the Holi Pride feasting on a dead elephant along Makudi Road. It appeared that the elephant, an old bull, had died of natural causes, and the pride wasted no time taking advantage of the meal. 

The Holi Pride actively hunted along the marshes near the main road and had successful hunts, mainly targeting warthogs and wildebeest. Toward the end of the month, the lions moved north, near the airstrip, expanding their range.

The three resident male lions, the Golden Boys, dominated the Second Lagoon and Kwena Lagoon areas. We spotted them at Rakgolo Road feeding on an elephant calf they had taken down the night before, spending two days devouring their kill. Another pride, the Mmamosetlha Pride, consisting of four lionesses, has successfully hunted warthogs and sometimes joined forces with the Golden Boys.

Large herds of elephants, often accompanied by tiny calves, came to the river in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Watching the subadult elephants playfully mud bathing and splashing in the water, even during the hottest part of the day, was a real treat.

The Lagoon Pride — another group comprising three lionesses with six subadults — prowled the riverbanks and took down buffalo on multiple occasions. Additionally, we’ve had a new pride in the area, consisting of two lionesses and seven cubs of different ages. The youngest cubs are less than three months old, while the oldest are over six months.

Cheetah chases and other spotted predators 

Two resident male cheetahs, known for their strong bond and hunting prowess, were a constant presence in the southern part of the Kwando Private Concession. We tracked them numerous times, following their paw prints along the Maheke area. On one occasion, we witnessed several failed chases before locating them the following day, feeding on an impala carcass. These cheetahs are relentless and efficient hunters, often targeting greater kudu and tsessebe. Their movements and success rates made them a fascinating duo to follow.

African wild dog sightings were rarer, but we still tracked two different packs. We followed one group of seven wild dogs before locating them resting along Maporota Road. Another sighting involved a pack of six African wild dogs near Upper Kwando, where they chased impalas into the thickets. Later in the month, we tracked this same pack south of the airstrip, finding them in the afternoon resting in the shade of an African ebony tree near Marapo a Thutwa.

The spotted hyenas have been busy, particularly where a dead elephant lay along Makudi Road. We watched eight hyenas take advantage of the free meal, gorging on the remains. Hyenas were also frequently seen during night drives, scouting the area for opportunities. Additionally, a brown hyena was spotted along Pangolin Road during one of our night drives, moving silently in search of its next meal.

Fireflies and night drives

Warm days brought out a variety of insects, including grasshoppers, antlions, and chafer beetles. We also saw plenty of fireflies lighting up the night, their glowing bodies adding to the magic of our evening drives. Nocturnal creatures such as scrub hares and springhares were spotted during night drives, hopping along the roadways. Black-backed and side-striped jackals trotted through the bush in search of food. African civets and small-spotted genets were also active, particularly around Water Affairs Island. The night skies have been breathtaking, with constellations such as Orion, Scorpius, and Libra clearly visible, along with planets like Mars, Saturn, and Venus.

Watching steenboks, the smallest of the antelopes, perform their peculiar behaviour of covering their dung to avoid detection by predators was particularly fascinating. Yellow and slender mongooses were also sighted darting about, adding to the variety of small mammal sightings.

Life is wild along the Kwando River

Nile crocodiles were a common sight along the Kwando River, basking in the sun or swimming just beneath the surface. Water monitor lizards patrolled the riverbanks and were spotted searching for food in the trees.

White-backed and hooded vultures fed on carrion, often joined by marabou storks. We also had regular sightings of ostriches foraging insects and plant material, and red-crested korhaans performed their parachute displays. Guineafowls and red-billed francolins have been busy sifting through elephant dung for undigested seeds. At the same time, birds of prey, such as African fish eagles, bateleurs, tawny eagles, and African hawk eagles, soared through the skies. African wattled cranes, open-billed storks, and goliath herons graced the floodplains.

The water levels in the Kwando River started to drop slightly, but there was still plenty for the wildlife. Cape buffalo and wildebeest were common around the water sources, while semi-aquatic antelopes such as reedbuck, waterbuck, and lechwe grazed on the floodplains. The woodlands dried out, though some trees, like the silver-leafed terminalia and candle-pod terminalia, were already sprouting fresh leaves. This is where we enjoyed sightings of eland, often seen along the Cutline Road, though they were quick to retreat.

 Another fascinating sight was watching a pied kingfisher hover above the remaining waters, ready to dive for fish, and seeing a black heron use its unique umbrella technique to lure fish and insects into its trap. The vegetation around the river remained green and lush, offering excellent grazing and browsing for herbivores. 

Lastly, we closely followed the activity of two subadult leopards — a male and a female — now fending for themselves after their mother was killed by lions from the Holi Pride. Despite the tragedy, these young leopards are proving to be skilled hunters. They frequently took down impalas and warthogs. The female was more comfortable around vehicles, often found sitting on her kills, while the young male was a bit more elusive.

We also spotted a male leopard feeding on a baboon carcass along Riverine Road and a shy leopard near Second Lagoon several times with kills. A more relaxed female and her cub were seen regularly near Water Affairs Island and the northern airstrip. Now around eight months old, these cubs granted us plenty of time to observe them, especially when they were found feeding on a reedbuck carcass along Pangolin Road.

(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!)

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The two male cheetahs that call the Lagoon territory home had a productive month and were sighted every few days, often near the Cutline.

Their constant movement across their territory — patrolling and defending it from other males — was gripping to follow. At the end of the month, we tracked them during a successful hunt at Segweda Crossing, where they brought down a half-grown male tsessebe.

The Kwando River was a magnet for general game, especially elephants, roan, and sable antelopes, which congregated to quench their thirst. Large herds of wildebeest were seen regularly around Muddy Waters. Browsers like kudu and giraffes were also abundant, taking advantage of the blooming trees to forage. Hippos, always a source of wonder, continued to dominate the riverbanks, and their social behaviours fascinated guests throughout the month.

The resident pack of six African wild dogs brought plenty of excitement, making four thrilling appearances in just one week. Known for their fast-paced hunts and elusive nature, they spent much of their time near Kwena Lagoon.

August signalled the return of migratory birds to the Lagoon Camp area. Carmine bee-eaters added splashes of colour to the sky, while the receding waters created ideal feeding grounds for storks and herons while yellow-billed kites circled the skies. One particularly special discovery this month was a new secretary bird nest near the Baobab at Second Lagoon.

Leopard survival skills and sibling bonding

Leopard sightings were remarkable. A young female, raising two cubs of her own, made several appearances along Badisa Road and Water Affairs Islands. Her hunting skills were on full display, and we had the pleasure of watching her cubs playfully honing their skills, chasing tree squirrels along Upper Kwando Road — an amusing spectacle that charmed all who witnessed it.

Tragedy struck earlier this year when Mma Mazabuka, a well-known leopardess, was killed by a lion. Yet, her cubs have shown incredible resilience. Although now fending for themselves, they have been sighted several times near Bee Eater, surviving the challenges of life in the wild. Another gripping moment this month involved a female leopard feasting on a baboon she had killed under the cover of night, an impressive testament to her strength and stealth.

Lion action at Lagoon Camp

August brought intense lion action with the Holi Pride at the heart of it. Known for their dominance over the region, the pride faced serious challenges as two rival male coalitions attempted to seize their territory. Over the past three weeks, the Holi Pride was under pressure, retreating eastward toward Muddy Waters and Water Cut, unable to hold off the determined intruders.

The two dominant Holi Pride males, Golden Boy and Rra Lebante, have shifted their focus northward into the territory of the Mma Mosetlha Pride, leaving the Holi Pride more exposed than ever. Despite the turbulence, there have been touching moments too — two lionesses were often seen nurturing their two-month-old cubs near Muddy Waters. These intimate encounters with the young cubs, growing stronger by the day, were a special highlight.

Spotted hyena tracks crisscrossed the reserve, a silent reminder of these nocturnal scavengers. One encounter, however, was anything but silent —along the Main Road, a group of 10 hyenas tried to scavenge on a deceased elephant calf. In an emotional display of maternal instinct, the calf’s mother fiercely defended the carcass, repeatedly chasing the hyenas away, her grief and determination palpable.

Night drives yielded incredible sightings of bat-eared foxes, civets and servals, with an exceptionally memorable sighting of a serval stalking through the moonlit grass. With their stealthy movements, African wildcats added to the excitement of the nocturnal safaris, rounding out the rich diversity of wildlife experiences at Lagoon Camp.

(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!)

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June roared to life as two male lions claimed their territory along Bee Eaters Road, their calls echoing through the early morning air.

Not far from Lagoon Camp, a group of lionesses soaked up the sun’s warmth, their regal forms a contrast to the chaos that would soon unfold. The Holy Pride lived up to its formidable reputation, making an unforgettable appearance right by the workshop, bringing down an impala. Tensions escalated when the pride clashed with a lone lioness fiercely defending her cubs, a reminder that survival is often a battle of will in the wild.

With pride sizes fluctuating between 8 and 18 members, these apex predators ensured every safari left guests in awe. Throughout the month, lions were spotted across various locations — Muddy Waters, Main Road, Airstrip Road, and Marsh Road — feasting on an elephant carcass or skillfully taking down a red lechwe.

Each leopard sighting was more captivating than the last. Morning and afternoon drives regularly rewarded guests with glimpses of leopards along Main Road, Dithakadu Road, and 1st Lagoon. One especially unforgettable encounter featured a subadult female leopard elegantly perched in a tree, scanning her surroundings. Early in the month, two subadult leopards finished off an impala kill along the riverbank, a meal their mother had caught. These elusive cats were also spotted feeding on an elephant carcass.

However, the month ended on a sombre note with the tragic loss of Mma Mazabuka, a beloved leopard, who was killed by a lion. Her cubs, still too young to survive alone, were discovered nearby, along with a carcass secured in a tree. It was a heart-wrenching end to an otherwise exciting month of leopard encounters and a haunting reminder of the unforgiving nature of the wild.

Colourful bee-eaters and swift cheetahs

Martial eagles, vultures, secretary birds, tawny eagles, and brown snake eagles soared through the skies. Meanwhile, ostriches strutted through the plains around Muddy Waters and 1st Lagoon. In their vibrant hues, Bee-eaters flitted through the trees, adding splashes of colour and delighting novice and experienced birders.

June began with a fleeting encounter with a shy male cheetah on Ipelege Road, who melted into the surrounding bush as quickly as he appeared. But as the days passed, cheetah sightings grew more exciting. Two well-fed males were spotted near Fallen Baobab, having successfully taken down an impala. A mother with two six-month-old cubs was observed sharing a meal, an impala kill. A pair of brother cheetahs, seen at the junction of Maheke and Zebra Road, rounded out an impressive month of cheetah encounters, proving that Lagoon Camp is as much their domain as it is the lions’.

African wild dog sightings were limited, with only one sighting of a pair along Beetsha Road. However, tracks suggest a much larger pack, possibly 15 to 30 dogs, moving through Maheke Road from the woodland areas to hunt before retreating back into the Mopane.

So much to see at Lagoon Camp

Elephants, giraffes, and hippos dominated the landscape around Lagoon Camp, with herds of elephants making their majestic trek to the Kwando River, often passing by during brunch. Elands graced Main Road, while side-striped jackals became familiar near the camp firebreak. Water Affairs became a bustling hub of hippo activity, while zebra herds frequented Bothapa Tlou Pan and nearby areas. Pythons, water monitors, rock woodland lizards, and crocodiles regularly, particularly around 1st Lagoon, Muddy Waters, and Water Affairs Island. Basking in the winter sun, these reptiles took full advantage of the cooler temperatures.

Night drives revealed the hidden world of smaller mammals — civets, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, genets, aardwolves, and even the endangered pangolin. Frequent sightings of steenboks and springhares added to the rich tapestry of nocturnal life that makes the Kwando Private Concession such a magical place. 

(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!)

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Aardwolves were a common sight this month. We observed two aardwolves courting just five minutes east of Lagoon Camp, although one was later killed by the Holi pride.

Another aardwolf was seen marking its den site at the second lagoon.

The first week in the bush was dominated by the imposing presence of the Holi pride, a formidable group of over 26 lions, including the last two males from the Ralebante coalition. Their most dramatic display came when they took down a hippo along the main road, a rare event that disrupted the usual peace in the area. Two days later, the remaining two lionesses from the Mma D splinter pride made their own successful hunt, taking down a waterbuck east of camp.

The Holi pride was seen along Diolo, finishing off a tsessebe kill, with another male joining later to finish the meal. The Holi pride spent much of the week around camp, leading to some dramatic moments. One evening, as we were having dinner, we witnessed a commotion east of camp and saw three males running through the camp to escape the resident males. One male was severely injured and spent the next week recovering east of camp.

Buffalo bonanza

The start of winter brought cooler temperatures, altering animal movements. General game was abundant, with hotspots like Muddy Waters, 1st and 2nd Lagoon, Bee Eater’s Island, and areas in front of camp teeming with wildlife. Zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, roans, sables, elands, and hippos were frequently seen basking in the sun until late evening.

Buffalo sightings were abundant, with 12 bulls regularly seen around Rakgolo Mogobe, Firewood Pan, Pan Road, Xokotshaa Oasis, and in front of camp. A large breeding herd was also spotted moving north through the mopane woodland, a behaviour often observed during the dry season when they search for better grazing areas.

The splintered lion pride

A splinter group from the Holi Pride, consisting of five lionesses and nine cubs, was found resting at Phuwas in their corner of the Kwando Private Concession. They moved towards the river for a drink before retreating into the Terminalia bushes to rest. This successful establishment of a new pride contributes to the overall lion population in the area. Another pride with five cubs was located near the Munhumutapa islands. The coalition of two males was locating resting and calling south of camp, adding to the lion-heavy start of our month.

Continued lion activity included two lionesses hunting along Middle Road, while another pair with a young cub hunted warthogs at Water Cut but failed. Meanwhile, the smaller Mma Mosethla pride of four was seen on an impala kill, with a female leopard nearby, likely having lost its kill to the lions. Vultures were commonly seen at kill sites, including the rare white-headed vulture, white-backed vultures, lappet-faced, and hooded vultures.

Resident male cheetahs, Boiki and Boy Boy, were frequently seen patrolling west of the cutline. They were also observed courting a female cheetah. A female cheetah with two young cubs, about three months old, was located hunting at John’s Pan. They were seen again the next day, resting and well-fed.

A busy Spotted hyena den

Spotted hyenas were frequently located at Zebra Pan and other areas. After several sightings, we tracked them to a large den west of the pan, housing over 12 young ones and numerous adults. This den is a key social hub for the hyenas, where they interact, play, and learn important social skills. At one point, 21 hyenas were counted at the den!

A female leopard, Mma Mazabuka, was seen several times with her two subadults along the main road. We spotted another female leopard near Zebra Pan, initially on a hunt, but later found her with a kill hidden in a nearby tree. A young male leopard was seen hunting near the river east of camp but aborted the hunt. Mma Mazabuka and her subadults often patrolled Marapo a Thuthwa, moving towards Rakgolo Road. Less than 100 meters from where they rested, her older sibling, Mazabuka, was seen patrolling from the second lagoon past the airstrip to Muddy Waters and as far west as Zebra Pan. The young female from the previous litter was also spotted several times on hunts. Along Pan Road, we witnessed two male leopards, known as “the twins” Mazabuka and Raboyi, feeding on a warthog, taking turns to eat. A shy male leopard was seen at Pan Road, while another lactating female became a regular sight and was witnessed hunting several times west of the airstrip.

Though there were no direct sightings of wild dogs, we found tracks of three separate packs at different locations.

Small mammal safari

The area teemed with small mammals, including spring hares, porcupines, honey badgers, various mongoose species (yellow, dwarf, slender, banded, white-tailed), bush babies, steenbok, scrub hares, bat-eared foxes, and both black-backed and side-striped jackals.

Birdwatching was excellent, with sightings of marabou and yellow-billed storks, open-billed storks, and various raptors, including long-crested eagles, near Phuwas.

The lower Kwando River water levels created feeding frenzies for aquatic birds like herons, egrets, and snake eagles. Large flocks of pelicans frequented the drying pools and lagoons. We also spotted African rock pythons and water monitor lizards along the riverside and crocodiles basking in the sun during drives. Puff adders were common sightings, especially after dark, when clear night skies offered beautiful stargazing opportunities, with prominent constellations and stars visible.

(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!)

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After undergoing regular refurbishments, Lagoon Camp reopened in February. Lion sightings increased significantly, and their roars became our anthem for the month.

The Holy Pride, a prominent group in the area, stole the spotlight. Comprising three females, eight cubs, and three males, they became a regular sight at Sgwenda Crossing. During game drives, we tracked them along the Makudi route, at Rax Pan, and alongside the Water Cut Road. Additionally, a coalition of three male lions joined the Holy Pride along Upper Kwando, while an alliance of two (Rra Lebante) appeared on the Water Cut Road.

February also brought excellent cheetah sightings featuring the two resident brother cheetahs. The duo was spotted on a hunting venture east of Halfway, culminating in a remarkable achievement — an adept kill of a female red lechwe. Adding to their exploits, these siblings showcased their agility along the landscapes of Mosheshe.

Activity at the spotted hyena den

The hyena den buzzed as playful puppies frolicked, and a vigilant adult always kept watch nearby (as did we). It was always a cherished spectacle, and on the 27th, we were treated to the delightful sight of eight energetic hyena pups accompanied by two watchful adults.

A diverse range of general game included giraffe, tsessebe, impala, red lechwe, lively appearances by black-backed jackals, graceful steenbok antelopes, and the charming bat-eared fox. These remarkable creatures frequently visited prime hotspots in the Kwando Private Concession: Zebra Pan, Giraffe Pan, Grass Pan One and Two, Lagoon, and Muddy Waters.

The marsh areas and seasonal channels bustled with bird activity. Flocks of marabou and saddle-billed storks were witnessed feeding on fish. The busy display also included white-fronted bee-eaters, little bee-eaters, spoonbills, yellow-billed storks, and majestic African fish eagles soaring along our river; Tawny eagles, graceful wattled cranes, and the impressive Verreaux’s eagle owl were all logged too.

A solitary leopard made a cameo appearance towards the end of the month: a subadult female was observed reclining on a tree along James Road with a satisfied, full belly.

Water monitor lizards strolled about in the camp vicinity, and green-spotted bush snakes were familiar sights as summer started to close.

While the vegetation and trees flourished in strong green hues, the water channels experienced an unusual decline, and the once-lush flood plains lay dry. A unique juxtaposition where thriving life met the subtle ebb of water sources.

In the evenings, the Southern Cross (the most prominent constellation) shared the stage with Canis Major, the mysterious Scorpius, and the iconic Orion. And we took advantage of admiring the radiant presence of planet Venus, casting its glow in the cosmic expanse.

(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!)

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Golden Boy, a substantial male leopard, often strolled through the vicinity of Mokhutsomu Pan as he ventured northward.

Another male, Mazaboka, shifted his usual haunt to the north of Grass Pan, revealing the dynamic nature of leopard territories. Along Diolo Road, a young female engaged in intriguing olfactory investigations, seemingly searching for Mazaboka, her companion from multiple past encounters. Their rendezvous was documented west of Lagoon Camp along Number One Road. Mazaboka displayed his hunting skills by securing a kill — an impala lamb.

In other news! The mother of two, Mmamazabuka, showcased impressive adaptability, leveraging the abundance of young animals in the region, including impalas, kudus, and tsessebes. A remarkable deviation from typical leopard behaviour unfolded as we trailed her during a hunt, witnessing her chase an impala lamb for an extraordinary distance of around two hundred meters — an uncommon feat in the world of leopards. The subadults under her guidance also made their mark, securing a kill of an impala lamb south of Tsokotsha. Additionally, west of Pangolin and Upper Kwando Junction, we encountered a female leopard with a cub that had successfully hunted an impala lamb.

Frequent rains added a dynamic flair to the activities of the lion prides, notably the esteemed Holy Pride. Their movements, extending as far as Ipelegeng road and the Cutline Pan, typically favoured territories of the Mmadikolobe pride due to the abundance of resources — zebras, tsessebes, and wildebeests adorned these landscapes in impressive numbers. Their full bellies spoke of numerous occasions spent in these rich hunting grounds. Notably, one heavily pregnant female roamed with her eight cubs (all around seven months old).

The skills of the male lions, the Rrabogale coalition, were evident as they also covered vast expanses, ranging from John’s Pan to the far east of the camp. A glimpse of one member feasting on a hippo carcass by mud-waters and three others savouring a buffalo carcass southeast of mud-waters became a regular occurrence, their satisfied bellies showing off successful endeavours. At the start of the month, the Mmadikolobe pride ventured as far as the first lagoon, Badisa, and traversed the cheetah marking post route, the domain of Mmamosetlha. The Mmamosetlha pride, accompanied by three subadults, thrived, exhibiting successful kills in various locations. Their vitality was evident from feasting on a zebra carcass west of the airstrip to a later spectacle south of the airstrip, where they relished another zebra kill.

The great plains game of Kwando

Zebras dominated various landscapes of the Kwando Private Concession, from the second and first lagoons to grassy plains and the aptly named Zebra Pans. Most antelope species nurtured their young, while some still gave birth, including wildebeests, impalas, and tsessebes. Eland antelopes clipped across the open areas alongside zebras, while sightings of sable antelopes were less frequent. Abundant water in natural holes reduced elephant movement. Yet, whenever more than two rainless days passed, a significant number of these majestic creatures could be observed converging towards the Kwando River.

Two prominent cheetah brothers were frequently spotted, particularly in the southern region of Cutline, coinciding with tracks belonging to a female. Occasionally, they ventured on separate paths only to reunite the following day. We traced their recent movements with the discovery of fresh tracks near Grass Pan, leading us to locate them in the afternoon at their distinctive marking post by Mosheshe.

The Lagoon Pack of African wild dogs

A pack of ten African wild dogs, known as the Lagoon Pack, consisting of nine adults and an endearing puppy, journeyed near Lagoon Camp, heading southwards towards Rrakgolo. They displayed their skills by hunting and successfully taking down an impala lamb. After their meal, they found respite by the cheetah marking posts along Grass Road. The afternoon unfolded with a thrilling pursuit, resulting in the pack securing at least four additional impala kills. However, by the following morning, they had mysteriously vanished, leaving behind tracks indicating a trajectory toward Cutline. In the afternoon, their presence was noted on the Lebala side. During another morning game drive, we were drawn to a single highly mobile wild dog, swiftly disappearing into the dense mopane bushes. In the afternoon, diligent tracking led us to a group of approximately fifteen wild dogs within the mopane woodland.

Spotted hyena encounters were exceptional, with these fascinating creatures frequently appearing in various areas. In the preceding month, there was a den not far from Middle Road, but the hyenas relocated due to flooding. Following the tracks of African wild dogs, we stumbled upon their new den along Maporota Road, although the clan appears to be accustomed to denning along Middle Road. Throughout the month, we were fortunate to witness their hunting and scavenging activities unfold in diverse locations.

Bat-eared foxes foraged, and springhares hopped into the lamplight during night drives. Banded, yellow, and slender mongooses added lively dynamics to bush explorations, while aardwolves made noteworthy appearances throughout the month. Two bustling aardwolf denning sites were particularly active, situated by Main and Makudi junction roads and another along Makudi road, though it, unfortunately, also succumbed to flooding. The elegant serval cat was seen foraging along Water Affairs Island, and African wild cats, with their mysterious allure, were repeatedly sighted.

A languid giant crocodile was observed basking by the second lagoon, accompanied by several energetic young ones at Kwena Lagoon and Half-Pan. Water monitor lizards were also spied.

Diverse cuckoo species, carmine bee-eaters, broad-billed rollers, steppe eagles, wattled cranes and open-billed and yellow-billed storks adorned the skies while majestic ostriches moved through the lengthening grass. Various vulture species added to the aerial ballet, soaring and, on occasion, feasting on scattered carcasses.

Celestial bodies like Jupiter occasionally graced the night sky when clouds parted, and Venus cast its early morning glow. Constellations like Orion’s Belt, Taurus, Sirius, and the Pleiades made captivating appearances during clear spells.

(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!)

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There were active spotted hyena dens in two separate locations (along Middle Road and Mosheshe Road), each hosting over 12 charming newborns and always bustling with activity.

The hyena cubs still bore their black coats, and it is thought that the dark colouration helps them blend into the shadows and vegetation in their den or the surrounding environment, providing them with some degree of camouflage and protection from predators.

Lots of little ones at Lagoon Camp

Denning sites for jackals, bat-eared foxes, and Aardwolves were also discovered, and each was alive with family action.

Mma Mazabuka and her two cubs claimed their domain, all patrolling and making awe-inspiring kills and, more opportunistically, raiding kills from other leopards. Another young female leopard displayed her skill in hunting, especially targeting young impalas and the vulnerable offspring of plains game as the baby boom of summer continued. Many of the kills had also been young warthog, tsessebe and gnu.

We witnessed approximately 15 different leopard sightings; notably, all sightings occurred during the day, either in the morning or just before dusk.

The dynamic cheetah duo, Boiki and Boiboi, formed a coalition that traversed the entire length of the Kwando Private Concession, making several appearances throughout the month. We also tracked a serene female cheetah lounging along the dried floodplains in the marshes. Yet another young male cheetah sought refuge near Mokhutsum Road.

What have the lions of Lagoon been up to?

The Holi lion pride, Mma Mosetha, and Mma D, along with the ATI (Raithwane) coalition north of the camp and the Bora Bogale coalition of the Holi pride, have been the protagonists of the lion saga in the Lagoon area.

In the first week of November, the Mma Mosetha pride, with its two lionesses and three seven-month-old cubs, mesmerized observers near upper Kwando as they fed on a tsessebe. Simultaneously, the Borabogale coalition (comprising three males, five lionesses, and eight cubs) took centre stage with three sightings. Mma D, a splinter pride from Holi, was spotted quenching their thirst near the lagoon, while another encounter saw them feasting on a wildebeest at Marapo a Kubu.

The ATI coalition, located on a tsessebe kill, shared the limelight with the Holi pride, devouring an elephant carcass at the fallen baobab. The third week delivered five lion sightings, with Mma D making three appearances near the airstrip, focused on hunting warthogs. The Holi pride appeared twice at the fallen baobab.

The fourth week unfolded with many lion sightings, including the three male lions from the southern part of the concession, marking their presence at Lechwe Corner after a red lechwe feast on the plains.

The resident pack of around 10 African wild dogs showcased their effectiveness by engaging in several successful hunting expeditions. Some outstanding impala kills occurred near the camp and in the Rakgolo area.

Honey badgers, porcupines, wild cats, and civets appeared during night drives. Civets, characterized by their primarily nocturnal behaviour, thrive in the cover of darkness. This nocturnal lifestyle serves a dual purpose, allowing them to avoid predators and reduce competition with diurnal species that are active during the day. Omnivorous in nature, civets have a diverse diet that includes fruits, insects, small mammals, eggs, and occasionally carrion.

The tapestry of the general game showcased the vitality of the area. Zebras, elephants, breeding herds of buffalos and bachelor groups, plus towers of giraffes, dotted the floodplains. Newborn impalas, tsessebe, and wildebeests accompanied the adults. Small herds of roan and sable antelope were located around midday and in early afternoons coming to drink along the floodplains too.

We saw a significant decline in the number of plains game in this area after we received the first rains, and we had a heavy storm in the third week of November, which saw the animals seek the safety of the woodlands.

Majestic birds of prey, such as Wahlberg’s, tawny, and African hawk eagles, gracefully soared overhead. The drying pools emerged as a bustling theatre for fish-eating birds with fish and frogs trapped in the water and feasted upon by marabou storks, yellow-billed storks and pelicans. We also located the carmine bee-eaters’ nesting site along the steep banks of the Kwando River. European bee-eaters and blue-checked bee-eaters were also logged.

(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!)

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The charismatic Mazabuka leopardess captivated guests when she appeared with her two cubs. We witnessed the trio devour an impala and saw the family feasting on a deceased elephant, the spectacle unfolding at Badisa Island.

Our guides also located another subadult female, perched high on a tree, and her swollen nipples hinted at new cubs.

October proved exceptional for African wild dog enthusiasts. Two distinct packs, one of ten members and another of two, showcased their wild and untamed spirit. From hunting along the Main Road to playful moments near Marobalo a Ditshwene, these wild dogs added a dynamic and vibrant energy to the landscape.

The two resident cheetah brothers made some moves, expanding their territory into the dry expanse and occasionally venturing into the neighbouring area. The ever-present lions influenced their movements, and on the 29th, they marked their homecoming with a successful impala kill.

Spotted hyenas had active dens, and our engaging morning game drives often featured these intriguing creatures and their adorable little ones.

Giraffes gracefully nibbled on the flowers of the knobbly combretum in picturesque scenery that also featured massive herds of elephants and buffalos, along with sable, roan, and the tsessebe protecting darling newborns.

Bounding bushbabies and migrant birds

The nocturnal realm was alive with jackals, bat-eared foxes, springhares, scrub hares, civets, aardwolves, African wildcats, and lesser bushbabies making captivating appearances during night drives. African civets are omnivorous, consuming various food items, including fruits, insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, and sometimes carrion. They are particularly known for their fondness for specific fruits and are considered critical in seed dispersal in places like the Kwando Private Concession.

Carmine bee-eaters, broad-billed and European rollers were standard sightings on the bird checklist. We also observed golden weavers weaving intricate nests in preparation for summer breeding while raptors such as yellow-billed kites and short-tailed eagles graced the skies.

The stealthy water monitor lizard and the stoic crocodile added a prehistoric touch to the riverbanks and lagoons of the Kwando River. A spotted bush snake was sighted near camp. The delicate flutter of butterflies, including the citrus swallowtail, African monarch, and diadem, brought a peaceful brilliance to the landscape.

The lion landscape at Lagoon Camp

The Holy Pride, accompanied by eight playful lion cubs, revitalized the area near Water Cut and Lebengula South.

Meanwhile, the Mma Dikolobe Pride, famous for its four cubs, frequented the Air Strip Road and Muddy Waters Stranglers. They exhibited remarkable hunting skills, taking down a tsessebe on the Link from Pangolin to 1st Lagoon. Their prowess continued with successful hunts of zebras south of the camp and along the Pangolin Road. A coalition of three male lions, including the Northern Boys, added to the drama, and we often witnessed them showcasing dominance. We also located the Holy Pride feeding on an elephant, while nearby, two male lions rested in the shade by Lebengula South, their bellies full.

(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!)

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We witnessed some fantastic leopard sightings at Lagoon Camp this month. Mmamazabuka and her two cubs were particularly impressive when they made an impala kill due to baboon disturbance.

We saw her dragging the carcass between Old Lebala and James’s roads. One of her previous litter, Mazabuka, has been doing well hunting various prey species. We also saw the big male leopards in the area feeding on a warthog, using their brawn to haul it up a tree along the Main Road.

We located spotted hyenas on the move along Bee-eaters Road and salivating near the aforementioned leopard kill along Main Road. Many tracks indicated potential den locations in the mopane scrub, but we have yet to locate a definite site. Towards the end of the month, we encountered several hyenas relaxing around an elephant carcass.

Holy pride happenings

When it comes to the Holy Pride, we were very excited to hear that three lionesses gave birth to nine cubs three months ago. However, at the beginning of the month, we could only identify eight cubs. The fate of the missing cub remains a mystery. We found this pride feeding on the elephant carcass, taking turns with the opportunistic hyenas.

We also enjoyed seeing the seven male lions that have ventured further south to feast on buffalo carcasses. We later located their tracks by the link connecting Old Lebala and Sepachi Roads with a kudu carcass nearby. The Leadwood Pride, consisting of five females and seven cubs, was witnessed around the Watercut and Leadwood Drive areas. We observed one female from this pride mating with a Rabogale coalition member.

The Mmadikolobe Pride, with four cubs and six subadults, experienced turmoil as the subadults appeared to be rejected on one occasion. The Rrabogale coalition moved closer to Lagoon Camp, nudging the northern boys towards Kwena Lagoon. Additionally, the Mmamosetha pride, along with their three cubs, has been active. There was a unique sighting of one of the males feeding on an elephant carcass northwest of the camp along the Airstrip Road.

A pack of nine African wild dogs (six adults and three pups) was located north of Grass, Rex, and Secretary Junction. We followed the pack’s tracks to the Kalahari bushes but lost them as they headed east towards John’s Pan. African wild dogs are easily recognized by their mottled coats with a patchwork of colours — white, black, yellow, and brown — and each animal has a unique pattern.  

During one incredible game drive, we watched a female cheetah make a kill, only to be outdone again later in August when two brothers made a successful subadult female impala kill. These cheetah brothers were seen fully bellied on several occasions and were active in various areas, hunting and marking their territory.

As we approached the end of the dry season, the landscape saw a significant movement of animals towards the river due to water scarcity. There were abundant elephant populations, sable antelopes, roan antelopes, and buffalo herds. Various other species, such as impalas, kudus, tsessebes, red lechwes, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, baboons, and warthogs, were seen throughout the concession.

Night drives were equally busy with aardwolves, mongoose families (dwarf, banded, yellow, slender, and white-tailed), honey badgers, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, springhares, bushbabies, civets, and wildcats making appearances.

Monitor lizards and crocodiles were easy to see during the boat cruises, while some common butterflies, including the African monarch, were detected flying about.

Return of the carmine bee-eaters

We welcomed the return of southern carmine bee-eaters. These birds prefer open country areas, especially along rivers, where they can find sandy cliffs or riverbanks to dig nesting burrows. Lagoon Camp is the ideal place to observe them. Other wonderful bird species, such as ground hornbills and secretarybirds, were logged alongside bustards, vultures, marabou storks, eagles, ostriches, and cranes.

(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!)

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