Several cheetah sightings were recorded in October, making it an exceptional month for spotting these sleek predators (plus many other big cats, too).
A coalition of four male cheetahs traversed the plains near the Boro River, offering an unforgettable spectacle with their synchronized movements and hunting strategies. One morning, a mother cheetah with two cubs was also observed, providing guests with a rare and touching moment as she nurtured her young and began teaching them the skills needed to survive.
Leopard sightings were even more spectacular. A mother leopard with her cub continued to delight guests, and they were frequently seen near Tent 17. Watching the cub’s playful antics while the mother kept a watchful eye was a highlight for many. A more elusive male leopard was also seen often, but he remained more skittish, often dashing into the bush.
This month, the wildfires around the reserve sparked new grass growth, attracting a remarkable variety of general game close to the camp. Massive herds of zebras and wildebeests filled the plains while giraffes moved gracefully among the trees. Warthogs, impalas, tsessebes, kudus, steenboks, and common reedbucks also thrived, taking advantage of the fresh, succulent shoots. This surge in prey population also influenced the behaviour of predators, leading to more frequent sightings and interactions.
Lions on the hunt at Moremi Crossing
We witnessed a dramatic attempt by a pride of lions to take down an injured buffalo. The lions, numbering six, launched a coordinated attack on the animal, which had been separated from the herd due to its injury. Despite its condition, the buffalo put up a fierce fight, fending off the lions and escaping. Though unsuccessful, the sight of the coordinated attack and the buffalo’s tenacity was truly fascinating. Another buffalo was not so lucky. Near Chief’s Island, a pride of 13 lions was found feeding on a freshly killed buffalo carcass, their bellies full and their behaviour relaxed as they rested after their feast.
Spotted hyenas were common, and multiple sightings were recorded across different locations. Their whooping calls often echoed through the night, creating a thrilling atmosphere for our guests.
Night drives revealed a treasure trove of smaller nocturnal mammals. With the help of spotlights, we observed servals gracefully prowling the grasslands, honey badgers showcasing their tenacity, and African civets and genets moving stealthily through the shadows. Porcupines, banded mongooses, and water mongooses made frequent appearances as well, with the latter often seen taking advantage of the receding riverbanks. Side-striped jackals and bat-eared foxes were also regularly observed.
African wild dog sightings were initially sparse due to flood-induced movement restrictions, but as the Boro River dried up, we were treated to some unforgettable moments. One morning, we tracked a pack of 19 African wild dogs on a hunt, which ended in a successful impala kill.
Lesser spotted eagles, steppe eagles, amur falcons, and European rollers were among the migratory birds observed, their distinct calls adding a musical backdrop to the wilderness. Red-breasted swallows, lesser-striped swallows and southern carmine bee-eaters flitted across the sky, showcasing their bright colours.
(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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