Category: Lebala

Our afternoons were often filled with the thrill of tracking cheetahs, sometimes for as long as two hours. We diligently checked their regular marking posts for signs of activity, a task that always kept us on the edge of our seats.

The cheetahs were typically found resting after long travel distances, but it was always fascinating to watch them mark their territory or climb trees for this purpose. One afternoon, we located a female cheetah with two nearly year-old cubs — whom we hadn’t seen in over six months. We watched them hunting and chasing impalas. They successfully caught an impala lamb, which they briefly left behind before moving on. Later, we returned to the spot to find a tawny eagle feeding on the carcass.

During nature walks, we noticed the first flowers of the season, including fireball lilies and spider lilies. Dung beetles were also active, spinning their balls across the sandy tracks of the Kwando Private Concession.

The pride of female lions crossed the river channel into the islands of the Kwando Riverine system following the buffalo herds. While these females fed on buffaloes, and we often heard their roars responding to the males, three males remained mainly along the marsh areas near Lebala Camp.

These males from the South Coalition spent much of their time resting. They ventured into the woodlands a few times, but we tracked them as usual and found them feeding on buffalo kills of their own. In one particularly intriguing sighting, we saw one of the South Coalition males mating with a subadult female. This mating lasted for several days. In another instance, we observed four females from the South Coalition with eight cubs of varying sizes, feeding on a buffalo. They finished the kill within a day and a half.

Meanwhile, a new coalition of three subadult males was spotted on the northern side of the camp. Two of them remained pretty shy, often staying on the periphery of the South Coalition’s territory. The South Coalition males became curious when they heard the roars of these newcomers, causing them to approach briefly before the younger males retreated.

We tracked a subadult male leopard on several occasions. We found him perched high in a tree one morning, looking out intently. After some time, he descended, and we followed the leopard as he climbed another tree. His movements indicated he was focused on something, and eventually, we saw him eyeing a family of tsessebes. As we got closer, we noticed that the leopard specifically targeted the tsessebe calves. We observed his stalking behaviour, but just as he closed in, a flock of guineafowl appeared, alarmed by the predator. The tsessebes quickly fled with their calves, and the leopard retreated into the thick bush.

The water, the woodlands and shifting habitats in the Kwando Private Concession

The landscape began to turn green after two good rains, and several waterholes started to fill with water. The knobbly combretum trees were particularly beautiful this month, adding to the lush scenery. Migratory birds began to arrive, with woodland kingfishers and broad-billed rollers logged. A few Southern ground hornbills and secretarybirds were also spotted, along with some cuckoos.

One morning, we found a pack of 12 African wild dogs with bellies full from a large meal the previous evening. In the afternoon, we returned to see them engaging in their ritual greetings before setting off on a hunt. As we followed them, they encountered a spotted hyena, which they fought and bit before moving on. From there, the pack entered the thick woodlands alive with the loud, high-pitched sounds of cicadas.

The post-rain period brought about a remarkable change in the wildlife population. Plains zebras, once a common sight, became scarce, while giraffes started to return to the river after long periods in the deep woodland areas. We saw impalas and tsessebes giving birth, whilst buffalo bachelor herds were sighted in greater numbers than in previous years. Elephants, too, moved further into the mopane woodland after the rains, but when they returned, we encountered them in large herds, scattered across the area.

A single Nile crocodile was spotted regularly along the riverbank, leading us to believe it might be incubating eggs or tending to a nest. Upon hearing the sound of vehicles, most other crocodiles would retreat into the river, but this one remained in the same spot. Water monitor lizards were frequently seen foraging for food. Young pythons were spotted in the area, particularly during the night drives and sometimes in the early mornings, basking in the sun.

Spotted hyenas were frequently observed during morning and evening game drives, but they tended to be on the move and mostly solitary. However, their calls were often heard around the camp at night, adding to the nocturnal atmosphere. We saw African wild cats hunting during night drives, though without success. Civets were shy and elusive, while springhares were abundant in good numbers. Genets were spotted around the camp but remained relatively inactive. The aardwolf den, located not far from the camp, was active, with three young ones observed.

(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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For three consecutive days, lions were seen in and around Lebala Camp. One remarkable morning, a male lion and two females made an impala kill right in camp. Their roaring at night provided a thrilling soundtrack for our guests.

The camp was the place to be this October.

Early mornings were filled with the melodic calls of arrow-marked babblers, golden weavers, and dark-capped bulbuls, a beautiful wake-up for our guests when sipping coffee around the fireplace. Other notable sightings included southern ground hornbills, wattled cranes, goliath herons, cattle egrets, African fish eagles, and hooded vultures.

Breeding herds of elephants frequented the area, and many wandered through the camp during the day and night. Massive herds of buffalo were spotted several times from the lounge, and three solitary buffalo bulls became regular visitors.

During night drives, African civets and African wildcats were seen in different areas, while a resident porcupine made brief nightly appearances under the main area deck during dinner. A flush of African monarch butterflies fluttering through the camp, their beautiful colours adding life to the drying landscape, was also observed.

Walking safaris at Lagoon camp and lion prides

Walking safaris were a highlight this month, offering a unique perspective on the bush. Being at almost eye level with warthogs, jackals, and red lechwes added an intimate connection to nature. Our guides also shared fascinating insights into animal tracks, droppings, and the medicinal uses of various plants.

One morning game drive, a male and a female lion were found mating near the airstrip. Another pride comprising two lionesses and seven cubs was tracked and located at Halfway Pan. Meanwhile, two well-fed male lions were sighted along Bale Road, their imposing presence a testament to a recent successful hunt. Another duo of males was also found lounging near Termite Road one morning, completing a month filled with impressive lion encounters.

A pack of 12 African wild dogs was encountered at Kubu Pan, resting in the shade on a warm afternoon. The next day, the same pack was observed chasing impalas, but unfortunately, they were unsuccessful in their hunt. One morning, their tracks were found near the camp.

Our dedicated guides tracked a male and female leopard and found them mating. We also spotted a young subadult female near Old Hippo Pool in a serene and relaxing sighting. During another drive, we discovered an impala carcass high up in a tree; however, despite our best efforts, the leopard was nowhere to be seen. The leopard had likely been chased away by lions, as there were scattered tracks nearby.

A spotted hyena with two cubs was seen near Skimmer Pan. On other occasions, hyenas were witnessed at the Stadium and Twin Pools. Their haunting calls often echoed through the night, and their tracks were found scattered around the camp each morning, evidencing their regular nighttime patrols. Porcupines were also seen twice near Skimmer Pan.

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Brown hyena sightings were a highlight this month, even though these elusive creatures quickly vanished into the marsh when spotted.

The resident pack of 12 African wild dogs, consisting of seven adults and five puppies, were highly active, moving between Selinda, Lebala, and Lagoon.

We had the incredible experience of watching them hunt and successfully take down an impala right in front of camp while we were enjoying breakfast. We followed them on several afternoon hunts, but they weren’t always successful. However, we often found them most mornings feeding on their primary prey impala.

Large herds of elephants were frequently spotted, often accompanied by playful calves. We enjoyed watching the elephants cross the river channels, bathe in the mud, and even spray themselves with water to cool off. Bachelor herds of buffalo were common along the marsh. At the same time, the semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope has been a real treat for guests, particularly when males ventured into more open areas.

Another memorable sighting involved a group of spotted hyenas feeding on the remains of a buffalo after lions had finished their meal. This provided an excellent opportunity to observe their scavenging behaviour. With the dry season in full swing, much of the wildlife has been concentrated around the marsh, and the lion prides of Lebala took full advantage.

Two strong male lion coalitions at Lebala 

One of the most fascinating developments was the emergence of two coalitions of male lions, each consisting of three individuals. The older, more dominant coalition, known as the Golden Boys, expanded its territory toward Lagoon, while the younger coalition, referred to as Rra Pandane, now asserts control over the southern area. Both coalitions shared access to a single pride of lionesses, which moved between the two territories. The tension between the two coalitions has been palpable. On several nights, we listened to the roaring contests between the two groups, with their aggressive calls echoing across the landscape. At times, we could even hear the sounds of fighting in the distance. By morning, the Golden Boys would be back in the northern territory, while the Rra Pandane coalition would have retreated to the southern boundary, with the camp seeming to act as a natural border between them.

We encountered multiple leopards in a single day on several occasions this month. One female leopard with two cubs was spotted frequently, although her cubs remained shy and tended to retreat into the thickets whenever we approached. Another female with a single cub (estimated to be around two months old) also roamed the area.

We followed a female leopard and her year-old male cub on several hunts, and one especially thrilling sighting involved a common reedbuck kill. The cub, now almost grown, was reluctant to share the meal with his mother, growling whenever she approached. Meanwhile, the two dominant male leopards in the area have been tracking each other’s movements, marking the same territories and leaving scent trails. A younger male, who was previously chased off, has reappeared in the southern part of the Kwando Private Concession, avoiding conflict with the bigger males in the north. One evening, as we tracked this younger male, we watched as an African fish eagle landed nearby, and the leopard responded by trying to attack the bird — a rare and exciting interaction.

Coalitions and constellations 

The coalition of two male cheetah brothers was a constant source of excitement, though tracking them sometimes required hours of patience. We followed them on multiple hunts, witnessing their stealthy stalking and high-speed chases, though they didn’t always succeed in bringing down prey. One day, a female cheetah entered the area, leaving scent marks that the brothers eagerly followed. We saw the pair temporarily split up as they tried to locate the female, showcasing the intense dynamics of cheetah courtship.

Large crocodiles basked along the river banks, enjoying the sun’s warmth. We also had a few encounters with snakes, though many darted into the tall grass before we could identify them. Insect activity has increased, with various species of grasshoppers, beetles, and dragonflies becoming more prominent as the season progressed.

The birds have enjoyed this flush of life, too. We had not seen any nesting carmine bee-eaters yet, but white-fronted bee-eaters nested along the riverbanks. Secretary birds roamed the plains while raptors such as African fish eagles, tawny eagles, and bateleurs were observed in the skies, often scanning for prey from high above. The wetlands provided excellent opportunities to view wading birds like herons and storks.

Wildlife showed remarkable resilience despite the increasing aridity of the woodlands and the dropping water levels in the channels. Certain trees, such as the knobbly combretum, sausage trees, rain trees, and candle-pod acacia, started to bloom, adding vibrant splashes of colour to the otherwise dry terrain.

The night sky was a breathtaking spectacle, with minimal cloud cover revealing constellations such as Orion, Scorpio, and Libra. The stars, paired with the dry season’s crisp air, made for some truly incredible evenings under the African sky. African wild cats, genets, civets, and springhares were regular sightings on our nocturnal excursions, adding to the enchantment of the night. The white-tailed mongoose was spotted on multiple night drives, and porcupines became a familiar sight in and around 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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A dramatic shift in the lion hierarchy is playing out at Lebala. The three dominant males have been pushing their boundaries northward toward the Lagoon area, leaving the southern territories exposed.

This opening allowed a coalition of younger males, aged between five and seven years, to seize control of the southern region. Skimmer Pan now marks the invisible line between the two rival coalitions.

Tensions reached a boiling point when the dominant males returned from the south, bearing fresh scars from battles over territory. Their females, who had spent time with the new males during their absence, were quickly reclaimed. One particularly intense night saw the camp reverberating with the roars of combat. By morning, the dominant males had emerged victorious, mating with the females who had briefly courted the new coalition. Despite these fierce encounters, the dominant trio still controls the north, while the younger coalition has secured the southern region.

One of the lionesses, who had been pregnant, separated from the pride to give birth. Though we didn’t witness the birth itself, we saw signs of her lactating and later spotted her hunting alongside another adult female. We have yet to see her cubs but eagerly await their debut.

A tense cheetah pursuit interrupted

After tracking a pair of cheetahs for hours one morning, we found them resting but alert, preparing for their next move. By afternoon, they had climbed a tree to scan for prey, and their patience was rewarded when they spotted a herd of impalas.

As the cheetahs sprinted toward their target, the sightlines of everyone in the vehicle were glued to the unfolding drama. However, just as they closed in, a spotted hyena burst onto the scene, scattering the impalas and thwarting the cheetah’s efforts.

The hyena den remains active, with three cubs of varying ages providing plenty of entertainment. Two cubs are nearly the same age, while the third is a younger, scrappier addition. The mother’s protective presence is constant, though the calls of other hyenas suggest a larger clan lurking nearby.

One gripping scene involved a group of hyenas waiting for days near the site where lions had killed a buffalo. For five days, they lingered, patiently watching until the lions left. Once the lions moved on, the hyenas took over, greedily finishing the remains while fending off jackals and vultures in a chaotic, noisy spectacle of scavenging.

Large herds of elephants, wildebeest, and kudu were regularly spotted near the marsh, seeking relief from the climbing temperatures. Though fewer buffalo herds were seen, bachelor groups lingered near the river, their massive frames silhouetted against the sunset. The richness of the marsh area continues to provide nourishment for many species, but the landscape is dry, and we started to see the effects of the drought. However, the vegetation remains varied, with blooming trees attracting browsing species like kudus and giraffes.

Lebala leopard rivalries 

Leopard tracking this month has been an exciting challenge, with many sightings resulting from hours of tracking through the bush. Two males who have long been rivals were spotted at different times, continuing their battle for dominance. We noticed that when one of the male leopards ventured into the marsh area, the other remained in the woodland. Both were tracking each other using the same paths.

One of the males attempted to stalk two baboons, one of which was limping. The baboons, however, spotted the predator in time and escaped. Unfazed, the leopard quickly switched tactics and began stalking warthogs near a termite mound. In an incredible display of skill and patience, we witnessed him take down a warthog and settle in for a meal as the sun set.

We’ve also seen three female leopards in the area, including one who spent two days marking her territory. It’s been fascinating to observe her scent marking in the same areas as the males, asserting her presence in this contested land.

Fires were visible on the Namibian side of the river, casting an orange glow across the horizon at night. Meanwhile, the water levels, which were rising earlier in the year, have stabilized. Large crocodiles became a common sight along the riverbanks, often basking in groups of three or more. Their prehistoric forms lay motionless in the sun, providing a stark contrast to the smaller reptiles and insects also spotted this month. Notable among them was a rock monitor lizard, seen foraging through the woodlands. Insects have been less active, but we’ve noticed some interesting sightings of carpenter bees and ants.

The Southern Carmine Bee-eaters have returned, signalling the changing season as they search for nesting grounds. Secretary birds have also been spotted more frequently, with some observed in pairs, likely preparing for the breeding season.

The night sky was particularly clear, offering stunning views of constellations and stars, especially when the moon was absent. African wild cats have been particularly active, frequently spotted during morning, evening, and night drives. Aardwolves were spotted several times, along with genets, civets, and porcupines, all making their rounds around 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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July’s game viewing was exceptional, with large bachelor herds of buffalo moving between the woodland and marsh areas. Eland and sable antelopes grazed inland, visiting the few remaining waterholes.

Herds of elephants frequented the riverbanks for fresh water, while others passed through Lebala Camp during the day, providing an immersive experience as they trumpeted and fed just meters away from the main area.

The perfect pangolin sighting and brown hyenas at Lebala

Night drives revealed various smaller mammals, including springhares, bat-eared foxes, and civets. One particularly thrilling sighting involved an African wild cat hunting in the early morning, while aardwolves, typically shy, allowed us prolonged observation.

The real star, however, was a pangolin — a rare and unforgettable find during an afternoon drive, providing a once-in-a-lifetime moment for guests lucky enough to see this elusive creature.

Spotted hyenas were elusive, with their den site occasionally revealing a couple of females and pups. Tracks suggested a more significant presence, but they remained active primarily at night. However, guests were treated to a rare sighting of two brown hyenas moving through the area near their den — a highlight for those familiar with these shy, nocturnal creatures.

What have the Lebala lions and leopards been up to?

The resident pride of seven lions were frequently sighted on drives, and two lionesses and their playful cubs captivated guests throughout the month.

One memorable morning began with us tracking a cheetah hunt, but the unmistakable roars from the previous night hinted that the lions were closer than expected. Fresh tracks led us west of the staff village, where we located the pride feasting on a freshly killed buffalo. They stayed in the area for three days, during which three dominant males arrived, leading to a tense confrontation as these males continued their relentless efforts to push out two subadult males from the pride.

One lioness was heavily pregnant, while another was seen mating with one of the males previously ousted. Another spectacular sighting occurred near Halfway Pan, where the thunderous roar of a male lion guided us to a pride of ten lions feasting on an eland.

Two male leopards engaged in a fierce battle for territory. The dominant male had claimed the northern part of the concession, while a younger challenger staked his claim in the south. Tracking these elusive cats provided thrilling moments, and one morning, after an hour of crisscrossing over overlapping tracks, we finally found the dominant male dozing off. The sighting quickly became a hunt as he stealthily pursued his next meal before disappearing into the dense vegetation.

A female leopard was often spotted in the woodland areas, and guests witnessed a rare spectacle when a male leopard attempted to hunt a porcupine, a bold target that managed to escape.

The territorial tension between the two male leopards peaked when we found them growling at each other under the shade of Kalahari apple leaf trees. This quiet but charged standoff revealed the delicate balance of power in the wild.

Wild dogs den nearby and cheetah sightings delight

The rising water levels increased sightings of large crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, while water monitor lizards were often seen patrolling the river edge. The wetlands began to green up, providing a striking contrast to the increasingly arid drylands, as waterbirds took advantage of the changing landscape to feed in the shallow waters.

Lebala birdlife was as vibrant as ever, with frequent sightings of African hoopoes and white-fronted bee-eaters nesting along the riverbanks. A martial eagle was regularly spotted in the woodland along Eland Road, either perched near its nest or incubating eggs.

African wild dog sightings were scarce, but the anticipation is building. The pack had denned in the nearby concession, and we eagerly awaited the moment they start moving around with their pups. Fresh tracks occasionally appeared, hinting at their activity.

The two male cheetahs that roam between Lebala and Lagoon Camps were frequent visitors this July. These nomadic cats covered vast distances; tracking them sometimes took up to three hours. Their movements were likely influenced by a female cheetah spotted in the area, and on one occasion, we found her with two playful cubs practising their stalking skills.

Later in the month, we found the two males feeding on a freshly killed impala, with a female cheetah resting under a nearby tree. As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the plains, we left them to their meal.

(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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One fresh June morning, the air near camp trembled with the echoes of roaring lions.

Moving cautiously, stopping to listen, we heard the unmistakable sound of a struggle in the distance. Upon arrival, we saw a leopard perched high in a tree, gripping an antelope carcass while a lioness circled below. It seemed the lioness had tried — and failed — to steal the kill. Across the channel, male lions roared in response, their calls reverberating through the bush.

Stolen sitatungas and cute lion cubs 

In another part of the concession, a young male leopard had dragged his sitatunga kill onto a low-hanging branch. Below, a lioness prowled, eager but thwarted by the tree’s height. His mother, perched in a nearby tree, kept a vigilant eye on the scene. Such moments of raw tension and beauty underscore the growing leopard population in the area — an encouraging sign of a thriving ecosystem.

We recently confirmed the presence of five lion cubs — two from one female and three from another. It’s been a joy to watch these cubs play under the watchful eyes of the big males. The male lions have been active on the southern side, occasionally rejoining the pride and then moving north to check on the females with cubs.

June marked the beginning of the floodwaters trickling into the marsh — a welcome transformation, even if gradual.

Elephants enjoyed mud baths in the remaining waterholes, while male buffalos, less frequently seen, appeared along the channel. Giraffes were a common sight, moving in large numbers between the marsh and inland areas. We also spotted eland antelope on the inland side and zebras near the waterholes, often in large herds mixed with wildebeest. In the quieter corners of the bush, we saw aardwolves, bat-eared foxes, and servals. Near Skimmer Pan, a pair of aardwolves became frequent sightings, and during night drives, springhares dotted the landscape, their quick, bounding movements adding a touch of charm to the twilight savannah. One of our highlights was a serene encounter with a civet, calmly observing us from the shadows.

We encountered lions numerous times, often tracking them from the previous night’s footprints. One memorable morning, after about 30 minutes of following fresh tracks, we found the pride heading towards the marsh area. We were thrilled as one lioness broke into a high-speed chase after a red lechwe. Although the hunt was unsuccessful, watching the lions navigate the small water channels and get deeper into the marsh was captivating.

The pride spent much of their time in the marsh area, where we frequently observed their hunting attempts. Though many hunts were unsuccessful, we witnessed one young subadult lion successfully catch a young red lechwe and, in a cunning move, run into the marsh to eat it alone, away from the pride.

The little leopards of Lebala 

We observed two female leopards in different locations, both showing signs of lactating. One morning, while tracking a male leopard, fresh female tracks led us off course. After an hour of patient pursuit, we found her lounging near a blue bush, her muscles rippling under the morning light. As she climbed a nearby sausage tree, our gaze followed a trail of bloodstains, leading us to her hidden prize — an aardwolf carcass. After feeding, she vanished into the thick undergrowth, softly calling for her cub. Moments later, a tiny figure emerged, no more than three months old, and we watched in quiet awe as the pair reunited.

We caught fleeting glimpses of African wild dogs, their sleek forms slicing through the bush as they pursued prey before disappearing into the wilderness. The woodland areas echoed with the calls of swallow-tailed bee-eaters, their vibrant colours adding a splash of brightness to the wintery bush.

June brought increased sightings of spotted hyenas, particularly near what appears to be a new den. Two playful cubs were spotted under the protective eyes of the adults, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of these much-misunderstood animals.

Two male cheetahs continued to patrol their territory, primarily favouring the inland areas. Although their hunts didn’t always succeed, the open marshlands have become one of the male’s preferred hunting grounds. We often located them by tracking their movements to known marking posts, which helped guides and trackers overcome the challenge of hard ground where the spoor was difficult to see.

(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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A territorial battle between two male leopards, Fisherman and Mr Muscle, played out for nearly three weeks. 

These formidable cats vied for dominance, engaging in physical confrontations. One such encounter left Fisherman severely injured, appearing lifeless after a vicious neck bite from Mr Muscle. Yet, he defied the odds, surviving and later marking his territory, his wounds serving as proud battle scars. Alongside these males, we’ve had frequent sightings of females, including one whose impala kill was snatched by a hyena.

Majestic and Plentiful: Sable antelopes and Elands

General game viewing has been spectacular. Giraffes were seen in large numbers, often mingling with other species in the woodlands. Elephants visited the river in significant herds, providing breathtaking moments as they bathed and drank. We also consistently had sightings of a relaxed herd of sable antelopes, including a huge male, and sizable herds of elands, some numbering up to 40 individuals.

The Dominant Trio: Lion Kings of Kwando

There was an influx of lions at Lebala, likely driven by the scarcity of waterholes, which brought these magnificent creatures closer to our nearby river.

The pride’s three dominant males have been patrolling the halfway area between Lagoon and Lebala, ensuring their territory remains secure across the Kwando Private Concession. We’ve observed them hunting warthogs and wildebeest, though not all attempts were successful. Interestingly, one female shows signs of lactation, hinting at new cubs hidden away. The pride’s cubs are growing well, and their playful antics have been a delight to watch.

Our night drives were a treasure trove of unique sightings. Winter is the prime time for aardwolf encounters, and we were fortunate to spot many of these elusive nocturnal creatures. Day drives were equally rewarding, with regular sightings of African wild cats, dwarf mongooses, and slender mongooses. And the thrill of spotting African civets at night added to the excitement of our safari.

Rewarding birdwatching included numerous sightings of brown snake eagles, bateleur eagles, secretary birds, and a variety of water birds. Nature walks through the drying landscape were enriched with sightings of a few remaining flowers and various animal skulls, adding to the educational and immersive experience of exploring the bush on foot.

Crocodiles basking along the channels were a common sight, although monitor lizards and other reptiles were less active as the season changed.

The winter skies were clear and brilliant, providing stunning views of constellations. The lack of clouds enhanced our stargazing experiences, revealing the winter constellations, such as Scorpio, in their full glory.

(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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This month, we saw two rare oribi antelopes! They can only be found in this northeastern corner of Botswana, and we were thrilled to observe them in their natural habitat.

General game viewing was superb, with large herds of elephants delighting guests as they engaged in mud baths and crossed channels.

Spotted hyenas occasionally appeared, with one memorable sighting of a female carrying her cub in her mouth — a rare behaviour. A brown hyena was also seen near its usual haunt, offering a good view before it retreated.

Birdwatchers were treated to spectacular sightings, particularly of wattled cranes in the marshes and a pair of secretary birds with chicks at Kubu Pan. Migratory birds were less common, but swallow-tailed bee-eaters and striped kingfishers made appearances. Southern ground hornbills also paraded through the grasslands.

Let’s get to the lions and leopards!

Almost every game drive rewarded us with views of lions. The dominant trio of male lions, who rule the territory between Lagoon and Lebala, were often seen with two females and their four-month-old cubs. One particularly captivating moment occurred when an intruding female lion appeared, leading to a dramatic confrontation. The two resident females attacked the intruder, but the three males intervened to restore peace, suggesting that the intruder might be the mother of new cubs sired by one of the males.

The northern part of Kwando Private Concession saw a full-grown male and a subadult male arriving, with the younger male frequently seen mating with his sister. The dominant trio became notably active upon detecting these new males, culminating in a tense standoff where the intruders were scared off by a single roar, leaving us in awe of the dominant males’ presence and vocal power. We also witnessed the females with cubs feasting on a buffalo at Lechwe Corner, their faces and bodies coated in mud, creating an unforgettable sight.

A female leopard with a shy, two-month-old cub was spotted, providing a rare glimpse into their early lives. Another highlight was a young female leopard exhibiting playful behaviour by climbing and leaping between branches, while a young male was observed marking territory. The dominant male, the resident leopard, continues to rule his domain with authority.

A female cheetah was observed marking territory, seemingly searching for two resident males who often frequent the area. The two males were later seen calling for each other, suggesting one might have been with the female.

Inland grasses turned brown, though some trees remained green. The riverine areas retain their lushness, but water levels in the channels are low. Reptile sightings included quick glimpses of various snakes, an olive grass snake, and basking crocodiles along the river channel. Water monitor lizards were also frequently seen enjoying the sun. Night drives revealed a wealth of smaller mammals, including servals hunting in the marsh area, relaxed honey badgers, wild cats in the early morning, and numerous spring and scrub hares.

(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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One subadult male showcased the leopard’s exceptional hunting skills at Motama Pan, securing a water monitor lizard and providing a three-hour filming spectacle.

Another male and a stray female leopard were located west of Kubu Pan. Although the female sought refuge in the bushes, the male remained relaxed under the shade of a blue bush. We also found another sizeable male drinking by Python Pan, leading us to an impala carcass. On yet another game drive, we watched a dominant male leopard along Baobab Road on a lengthy journey of scent-marking and patrolling. Unperturbed by our presence, he even sought shade under our vehicle. 

A brown hyena carrying a piece of meat was spotted heading north of Lebala Camp at full speed into the marshes. 15 spotted hyenas were photographed diving in and out of the rib cage of an elephant carcass, creating joyous chuckles among our guests. Tawny eagles, yellow-billed kites, and various vultures — white-headed, lappet-faced, white-backed, and hooded — were also observed and photographed near this carcass.

Serval Surprises and Wild Dog Dramas

Nocturnal explorations unveiled some intriguing smaller mammals. One memorable moment was seeing an aardwolf engaged in scent marking and insect hunting. Other frequent stars of the night drives included both sleek black-backed jackals and side-striped jackals, African wild cats, a lively gathering of bat-eared foxes at Sunset Pan and the playful antics of springhares reminiscent of kangaroos, which delighted all observers. One appearance by a serval cat along the fire break sparked joy, and it was affectionately dubbed “baby cheetah” by our guests. 

A highly-spirited pack of ten African wild dogs, consisting of nine adults and one subadult, thrived in the area. Fresh tracks led to an exhilarating hour-and-a-half tracking session during one morning game drive. We eventually found them at a natural waterhole, where they were drinking. The atmosphere changed suddenly as the pack spotted a herd of impalas and set off on a thrilling chase. They successfully took down a male impala.

Later in the month, on another game drive, a pack of African wild dogs shot out from the bushes at a swift pace. Notably well-fed, it became evident they had recently been chased by lions, causing them to retreat to the shade under Kalahari apple-leaf trees. We spent two hours observing their contented demeanour, leaving the guests spellbound by the display of their post-hunt activities.

One day, during a bird-watching expedition along Crane Road, we chanced upon the Scarface pride — two lionesses escorted by nine subadults of varying ages. Following them back to camp, they passed the lounge area of Lebala Camp and headed south toward the airstrip, eventually finding shade under Kalahari apple-leaf trees. In the afternoon, we ventured north, discovering two lionesses at Lechwe Corner on an unsuccessful hunting mission. However, they later led us to their hidden treasure — four lively cubs, approximately three months old! 

During a transfer to Lagoon Camp led to the sighting of three dominant males, two lionesses, and their playful cubs strolling the floodplain by Lechwe Corner. As the day waned, they sought shade under an African mangosteen tree, with the cubs amusing themselves by playing with the male lions’ tails. Two wounded male subadults were also discovered near Twin Pools, hinting at their recent struggles. The Stricker Pride, consisting of two lionesses and five subadults, was found moving along Old Hippo Pool, heading south toward Boundary Road. We encountered the Holly Pride along the cutline road — four lionesses and five cubs feasting on two buffalo carcasses.

We tracked a female cheetah north of Motswiri Pan, where she engaged in three hunting attempts. Despite two failures, the third chase resulted in the successful capture of a female impala. The graphic feeding scene under a small blue bush gave guests captivating footage. Additionally, two dominant male cheetahs were found feasting on a female common reedbuck, following the alarm calls of a troop of baboons by Wild Dog Pan. A subsequent day trip allowed us to track and locate these well-fed males heading west.

Elephant and eland herds

The area teemed with vast herds of diverse animal species. Large elephant herds drank at the natural waterholes before bathing in mud and dust. A mesmerising moment occurred when elephants, with their calves, gracefully crossed the islands in a single-file formation.

Witnessing over sixty elands, dazzling numbers of zebras, and adorable impalas with their lambs added to the wildlife experience. Towering giraffes also graced the plains, while different natural waterholes and lagoons hosted lively congregations of hippos. Even within our camp, elephants appeared, emerging from the woodland and marching into the marshes with audible stomach rumbles. Dung beetles meticulously moulded and buried their precious dung balls.

We found Nile crocodiles basking on sandbanks and water monitor lizards at the edges of the waterholes. The air was alive with the graceful dance of net-winged beetles, grasshoppers, damsels, dragonflies, groundlings, and butterflies, creating a colourful spectacle. 

The skies also teeming with large flocks of birds. Among the residents, marabou storks, abdims stork, saddle-billed storks, and yellow-billed storks were photographed, often with their juveniles around natural waterholes feeding on toad frogs, rubber-banded frogs, and bullfrogs. Migratory birds such as southern carmine bee-eaters, broad-billed rollers, amur falcons, and woodland kingfishers added to the songs of the sky.

(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 brown hyena made several fleeting appearances, often observed at a close distance yet consistently on the move. 

On occasion, it ventured into Lebala Camp, particularly along the meandering marsh adjacent to room 8, displaying a notably shy demeanour. Meanwhile, the spotted hyenas provided entertaining scenes as they visited the remnants of old elephant skins post-rains. We watched their interesting behaviour of chewing on the remains and picking up small bones softened by the rain, subsequently crushing them much more quickly than during the dry season.

The Lebala lions follow abundant prey 

The landscape has become dense, and the blossoming flowers from various plants and shrubs added to the Lebala’s beauty. During nature walks, we admired this burgeoning flora as well as dung beetles weaving between the fertile herbage thanks to the plentiful plains game. 

General game sightings were impressive, with numerous zebras mingling with wildebeest and their calves in open areas on the inland side. There were changes in the lion movement patterns as the prides transitioned from marsh to the open grounds on the inland side of the Kwando Private Concession. 

The lions also explored the woodland side, aligning their movements with the prey in the area. At Lechwe Corner, three males, accompanied by a female lion, spent approximately three to four days in the region as one male mated with the female. What was intriguing was the presence of the other two males observing the mating couple for several days. Despite witnessing prides attempting to stalk zebras, they were unsuccessful in their endeavours. An exciting moment unfolded as two male zebras fought and ran toward the lions. Although the subadults reacted and came close to a successful catch, the zebras escaped. Furthermore, we spotted a lioness in the walking range area with two kills of male red lechwes.

The cutest leopard cubs!

A female leopard with two subadult cubs was frequently observed, and it was always delightful to witness their playful antics — chasing each other on top of trees, jumping from one branch to another. Meanwhile, a male leopard was seen hunting warthogs. During the chase, a large male warthog valiantly fought back to protect the piglets, successfully pushing away the leopard. Another male leopard in the area was more shy, being relatively new to the region. Along Makodi Road, the resident male leopard made a remarkable kill, capturing a zebra calf. He then dragged the prey up a tree and spent several days feeding in the area.

During one game drive, vultures circling and landing caught our eye, prompting an investigation into the source of their interest, and our search led to the African wild dogs lying beneath a tree. One displayed remarkable activity, running around before awakening the entire pack. Swiftly, they darted into the mopane woodland and disappeared. Their satiated appearance indicated they had likely recently fed on an animal, explaining the presence of vultures in the vicinity.

A pair of male cheetahs were found near Motama Pan, feeding on a wildebeest calf. Following their meal, they dedicated the rest of the day to leisure, resting under a tree beside the road leading to the airstrip. Even in the afternoon, they remained in the same vicinity. 

Amur falcons and bustling waterholes 

The Amur falcons persisted in large flocks, displaying lively activity in the morning and afternoon. Similarly, the carmine and blue-cheeked bee-eaters are actively present. The region continued to host various migratory birds, offering delightful sightings of Broad-billed rollers, woodland kingfishers and grey-headed kingfishers. Particularly fascinating was the sight of water birds congregating in substantial numbers around waterholes (brimming from the recent rains), encompassing a range of sizes from small to large aquatic species. During days with considerable rainfall, fewer elephants were observed, while on warmer days, a significant number of elephants were spotted.

(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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