One cannot help driving through the bush and noticing particular game paths or ‘ideal’ spots that you reckon animals would enjoy. And while we check on these as often as we can, there is always a little seed of wonder as to what goes on while we are on the other side of the reserve or even warmly tucked into our beds at night.
With this in mind I decided to put up a camera trap in the Tugwaan drainage line in hopes of capturing some of these secret moments. Thanks to Phill Judd, a regular Londolozi guest who sponsored the camera, we have been able to do just that.
I hope you enjoy this selection of what has been happening in the Tugwaan drainage over the last few weeks.
The red dot marks the spot where I set up the camera trap.
A hippo saunters by, unaware that his portrait was being snapped away!
A breeding herd of elephant
Family day out
Sibling rivalry.
Two buffalo bulls feed past.
The Tamboti female, with her beautifully coloured coat
A sneaky hyena out in search of a meal
Ranger Greg Pingo and tracker Andrea Sithole following Tamboti’s tracks!
Inquisitive monkey
A young bushbuck just makes it into the shot.
The Short-tailed male out on patrol as he continues establishing himself a territory.
A last glance before disappearing down the drainage line.
A male nyala takes a good look into the lens setting off the timer at the opportune moment.
Can you spot the porcupine?
Beautiful afternoon light accentuates the wrinkled skin of these two elephant.
Take off!
Written and collected by: Andrea Campbell
Stay tuned for part 2 – coming soon!
Thank you Andrea for those secrets moments of animal life when our backs are turned. Excellent and interesting idea I look forward to part 2. Porcupine found on the right !!! I just hope there are not the same camera for the guests in the camp… ahahah
Thanks David. Definitely none in camp although I am sure they would prove just as entertaining! I am glad you spotted the porcupine.
What a great idea Andrea, fascinating to see what goes on when no one is around. Look forward to the next instalment!
Thanks James, I’m glad you enjoyed the photos.
Wow! This is amazing. Amazing how clear the images are. Love it, can’t wait for more.
Excellent. I have a camera trap in California to watch the deer, coyotes and foxes on the street. I was wondering if you folks had given it a try. We’ll be there TOMORROW for our long Waited 12 days. Can’t wait to see everybody and Londo again!!
Thanks Bob! We look forward to having you back here.
Very cool!
Wow, what a great idea Andrea! That is one busy drainage line! I love the sneak peek at what goes on when no one is around – very interesting. I can’t wait to see part 2!
What an awesome variety of animals, thank you for sharing
HI ANDREA,
WHAT A BRILLIANT IDEA! WELL DONE, THIS IS SUCH AN INNOVATIVE IDEA.
I SPONSOR A CAMERA AT THE INGWE LEOPARD PROJECT IN MPUMALANGA, SO IF THERE IS A NEED FOR AN ADDITIONAL CAMERA TO BE SPONSORED, THEN I AM HAPPY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THIS CAUSE.
I WILL BE THERE IN JULY, SO WILL BE HAPPY TO DISCUSS THIS SHOULD THERE BE AN INTEREST TO HAVE ANOTHER CAMERA PLACED AT A STRATEGIC POINT ON THE PROPERTY.
KEEP WELL. TED.
Hi Ted! I am so glad you have enjoyed the blog. Another camera would be fantastic as I have so many ideas for potential projects and places to put them that having more than one would be amazing. We can chat in July and make a plan then. I look forward to it!
What a great idea.. Love the cam traps!
Love seeing what the animals do when no one is looking. Great pictures. Thank you, Andrea!