As the dry conditions continue to take their toll on the herbivores, it is the predators that seem to flourish. Many of the watering holes and even the Sand River have begun to dry, leading to unfavourable feeding conditions for not only the larger herbivores but also the antelope and many bird species. Subsequently, we have seen noticed that a variety of birds have departed our particular area and may even be embarking on their epic migrations to other feeding and breeding grounds.
However, when conditions are less favourable for some, they are a time of plenty for others. Many of the predators have been found to be spending the majority of their time, especially in the heat of the day, around the remaining water sources, often with full stomachs. Times of change are upon us and it will be fascinating to watch the dynamic shift, interactions and temporary adaptations amidst competing animals in the near future.
Thus, once again our sightings have been outstanding. With the pack of African wild dogs flourishing in these conditions, the elephants constantly showering themselves in mud and many amazing leopards spotted gorging on their kills, it has made for a fantastic week.
Have a great Friday, enjoy this Week in Pictures…
An impressive interaction between the two Matimba males and the Majingilane coalition took place recently. Here, three of the Majingilane brothers stride purposefully through their old territory.
A juvenile Bateleur eagle glares determinedly into the distance looking for potential prey.
The Piva male slakes his thirst in the well known Shingilana dam whilst keeping a close eye on a wallowing hippo.
A male cheetah surveys the horizon in the dying light of yet another beautiful day at Londolozi.
The Tamboti female glances up towards a herd of wildebeest rustling through the fallen leaves and branches, but shortly continued to feed on her impala carcass.
The Wild dogs are hugely successful hunters and even more so when antelope species lose physical condition. It has been noted that Wild dog populations increase drastically around 3 years after a drought. Here, a pup, along with the rest of the pack were inquisitively investigating feeding catfish in a small pool of water.
Whilst on patrol in her territory in the early hours of the morning, the Nanga female fortuitously stumbled upon this scrub hare. Needless to say she made a quick meal of it and continued on her way…
The Tamboti young female patiently stalks a herd of impala feeding adjacent to the Sand River.
A leopard tortoise emerges after a light drizzle to take advantage of the new shoots and other green vegetation.
A flehmen grimace from one of the Matimba males shows off his impressive dental structure. Many animals display this form of communication by transferring air particles from the urine and excrements of a potential mate or threat, onto a specialised organ situated between the roof of mouth and the palate.
The cub of the Mashaba female launches herself into a Marula tree in anticipation of feeding on her mother’s hoisted impala kill.
A mother elephant, along with the rest of the herd, graciously cools herself down in a relieving mud wallowing display. This was one to remember…
A young Ximungwe male stares into the setting sun contemplating his next cautious move. It was amazing to see this young lion roaming tentatively in unfamiliar territory.
The Tamboti young female has been spending a lot of time around Lex’s Pan. Although many predators get a lot of moisture from the animals they eat, they still need to drink daily…
Awesome pics! And so glad to see one of the Nanga female! Thanks for sharing!!
How far do the lions travel? All the way up north to Dulini area?
Callum what a week you have had, dogs, cheetah and the Majingilanes all returning, this time three of them. Did they come any where near the Matimbas this time and where they roaring and marking ? I feel a lion update needed ?
Wow, Callum, you make it come alive! Would love to be there too!
Love the elephant in the mud. Hoping drought relief of some sort happens soon. Aliha.
Sorry. That should be aloha.
Wow – that cheetah photo. Well done!
Great pictures and blog Callum! What has happened to the 4th Majingilane? It’s been a long time since he has been seen with his brothers. It’s great to see them back at Londolozi again. Have a nice weekend!
Wow the Ximhungwe male on Londolozi! was he with his two sisters or alone? thnx
Wonderful pictures Callum! I just wish that your area & surrounds could have rain. We had a stunning 58mms tonight in Alberton, so I hope & pray that it goes to all the drought stricken areas 🙂 Enjoy the rest of your weekend & week to come 🙂