As September ended, our guests expressed a wish to see cheetahs before departure. Determined to fulfil their request, we ventured into the eastern part of the Gunn’s Private Concession, where we stumbled upon a thrilling hunt.
We watched as a cheetah skilfully stalked its prey, culminating in a successful kill right before our eyes. As if this wasn’t exciting enough, the cheetah left the kill momentarily to fetch its two cubs, returning to the scene to share the feast. The scene grew even more dramatic when two spotted hyenas appeared from nowhere, attempting to steal the kill. However, the cheetah’s determination prevailed, and the hyenas left with empty stomachs.
There were frequent spotted hyena sightings along the riverine areas. One epic encounter unfolded when a pride of lions faced off with a clan of hyenas over a buffalo kill. The hyenas attempted to steal the kill, but the lions had already devoured most of the buffalo and left only bones behind.
African wild dog dens and lion kills in front of camp
A pack of African wild dogs was also observed in a heated standoff with two hyenas. The hyenas attempted to steal food, but the wild dogs fiercely defended their pack, likely motivated by the need to protect their young. The scene was comical yet intense, as the hyenas kept returning, undeterred, only to be chased away repeatedly.
Additionally, earlier in the month, we discovered an African wild dog den. While the puppies had already grown and moved out after a few weeks, the sighting provided guests with a unique glimpse into the family dynamics of these incredible predators.
Two prides of lions were particularly active and frequently spotted during game drives. Two males, often called “the boys,” were sighted regularly near the camp, sometimes crossing into the Moremi Game Reserve.
One especially thrilling moment occurred near the main area of Moremi Crossing Camp, where a pride with a female lion and her three cubs made a kill. Guests witnessed the scene from the comfort of the camp — an unforgettable experience. Beyond this, other prides ventured into the concession before retreating to their usual territories, keeping the lion dynamics in the area intriguing.
One resident leopard, a magnificent cat often seen near the camp, continued to grace us with her presence. On multiple game drives, we also glimpsed other leopards.
Life is wild along the banks of the Boro River
Elephants, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species, including kudu and impalas, are seen regularly. With the Boro River still providing water, animals had access to abundant food and water. Crocodiles basked along the riverbanks, soaking up the sun while keeping a wary eye on the surroundings. One dominant crocodile was spotted regularly near the main area, sometimes attempting to ambush unsuspecting animals coming to drink. Common bird sightings along the riverbanks included African fish eagles, storks, great white pelicans, African jacanas, and pied kingfishers
Elephants were especially prominent around the camp, often wandering between the towering palm trees. Guests frequently saw them shaking the palm trees to gather the nuts before moving on to the next. Buffalo herds were another common sight, often grazing near the main area or within proximity to the rooms.
Impalas were also plentiful, often seen grazing in large numbers. Warthogs made themselves at home around camp, taking refuge under the main area and even beneath guest rooms to avoid predators. Their antics were a charming addition to camp wildlife activities.
The clear September skies offered unparalleled stargazing opportunities. The Southern Cross, Pointers, and other constellations were visible in dazzling clarity.
(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!)
Comments closed