Our recent guest, Rita Shaw, shares some of her best images from her stay at Londolozi Tree Camp. An avid fan of the blog and past visitor to Londolozi, it is wonderful to be able to share some of her images below…
A baby elephant threatens the vehicle. Although young, these animals are not shy to test out whether their bulky stature affords them right of way in the wilderness.
A Barred Owl peaks out from behind the srub. Sightings of this species are more common in the winter months when the bush is thinner and their movements more noticeable.
The Dudley Riverbank 3:3 Young Male spots movement in the grass. Seconds later a francolin burst out of the grass in flight, averting being the victim of a potential hunt.
A giraffe drinks out of a small pool of water. Awkward yet elegant, these animals are notoriously vulnerable when crouched in this position - rearing quickly upwards after each and every gulp of water.
A member of the Majingilane Male Lion Coalition poses in the late afternoon sunlight. This particular male is identified by the scar above his right eye.
A closer look at the scar of this Majingilane coalition member. Judging from the size of the wound, it was more than likely caused by claw marks as a result of a brawl with another male lion.
This member of the Majingilane coalition looks to his right as one of the Sparta Lionesses approaches him. This male, identified by the multitude of scratch marks on his nose appears to be the dominant member of the coalition and is thus be the first to mate.
The Maxabeni 3:3 Male Leopard (b.2006) appears for a brief cameo sighting. Stunningly good look, yet infrequently seen, this male leopard was forced out of his natal territory by a combination of the Short Tail Male and the Camp Pan Male leopards.
The lengthy wingspan of a Secretary Bird spreads as it takes flight. Despite using their legs to hunting on the ground, these birds will also take to the air to spot prey species such as snakes and lizards.
A Tree Squirrel is perched on the narrow branch of an Acacia tree. These nimble creatures often alert other creatures (and people) to the presence of nearby predators or snakes.
One of the Tsalala Cubs pauses eating to look up. Their primary diet still consists of impala, however this will surely change as they continue to grow and force their mother to bring down larger prey species to substantiate their hunger.
Adept and agile, one of the Tsalala lionesses watches her cub scuffle amongst one another as they finish off the remains of the above impala.
Wild Dogs play in the last remains of golden sunlight.
Some amazing pics, Rita. especially of the Barred Owl and the Secretary bird taking flight – spectacular to see some great birding pics amongst the gems you have here of the mammals 🙂
lovely photos. thanks for sharing and I am completely jealous LOL
Thanks for your comments Penny and Linda, and thanks Rich for uploading the pics. Only just now had a chance to look at them after arriving home late yesterday – looking forward to coming back to Londolozi next year!!
Some really great shots Rita. Long time no see, I’m on the Sunny Coast these days. Not sure I ever mentioned it you but I spent 4 years in Natal. Went to most of the parks, thoroughly enjoyed those times. I especially enjoyed getting up close to rhinos and giraffe – on foot.
Fantastic pictures!
Proves the old adage you can never get too close.
Beautiful!
Hopefully I’ll get some that good upon my return to Londolozi.
I hope so too Chuck! When are you returning to Londolozi? Thnks for your comment.