During this time of year, Rangers rarely find themselves with free afternoons due to the high occupancy rates in the winter months at Londolozi. Ironically though, when we Rangers do have a guest-free afternoon, we often relish the opportunity to venture into the wilderness and see what we can find…
A few afternoons ago, after my guests had departed, I was fortunate enough to be able to do just that, with my camera loaded next to me, an excursion into the bush on a beautiful winter’s afternoon in the bush was focused on seeking out any photographic opportunities and helping the rangers seek out or track any animals. Having the opportunity to drive around Londolozi and cherish the wilderness we live in, is a rare privilege we don’t take for granted.
My afternoon’s mission began by heading down to one of my favourite parts of the reserve situated on the stunning Sand River. As I rounded the corner, a group of elephants started crossing the Sand River before me – a sight I have always wanted to photograph.
Captured from a considerable distance in black and white, I think this photo beautifully depicts the grandeur of the Sand River, enhanced even more by the presence of a herd of Africa’s majestic giants traversing its expanse.
After leaving the banks of the Sand River and driving south, I spotted a committee of very full-bellied White-backed Vultures, resting and digesting a recent meal.
One particular vulture caught my eye as it differed from the other three birds (not shown in this picture) facing another direction. Note it’s well-filled crop. At feeding sites, vultures can quickly consume ample food without the need to digest it amidst potential ground risks. They load up their crop (a pouch-like feature beneath their neck) before flying off to a safe perch. This enables them to calmly ingest their meal, unfazed by any imminent danger.
A call came through on the radio and alerted me to the discovery of a large buffalo herd in the reserve’s southern regions. With the sun gradually setting, I decided to head in their direction, hoping to share a moment with these amazing animals before night settled in. (Plus, Ranger Kirst Joscelyne had recently reported lion tracks not too distant from the herd)
The colours were incredible! Sitting in complete silence, listening, smelling and savouring what nature had to offer is what Africa is all about, for me. With the vehicle switched off for no less than 30 minutes, hundreds of buffalo meandered past and I managed to capture a few of the moments I was waiting for.
A female buffalo lifts her head to get a better look at us.
The sun’s rays break through the gap in the clouds creating a halo over the herd of buffalo.
In an ending that couldn’t have been more ideal, we stumbled upon the Ntsevu Sub-adult Lions – a group of five – trailing the buffalo herd! As the light was fading, the below photograph is the last that I managed to capture before it was too dark. Nonetheless, it was a special way to end my afternoon.
Ranger Chris Taylor and Tracker Geshom Mathabula sit patiently with their guests as one of the sub-adult males keeps his eyes on a potential buffalo to approach.
The lions patiently bided their time until darkness was in their favour and the sun vanished entirely beyond the horizon. Then, with meticulous coordination, they began their strategic approach toward the oblivious bovines. I lingered t a distance alongside them during their hunt for as long as I could. At around 19:00pm I decided to let them be and wished both the lions and buffalo all the luck they may have needed.
What an afternoon it was, alone in the wilds of Londolozi. I’m incredibly grateful for the privilege and opportunity to engage in afternoons such as this – to sit alone with the beautiful wildlife, listen and enjoy what it has to offer is something I’ll never be able to get bored of.
Good for you Dan to take a free afternoon and just go out and explore, with no agenda. You’re never at a loss for experiencing all that nature provides within the property. Your images are very special, especially those taken at sunset so thanks for including.
Thank you Dan! I am such a big fan of just sitting sometimes and observing and “taking it all in”. Beautiful photos!
What a way to relax and enjoy nature!
You are so fortunate. You wrote: Sitting in complete silence, listening, smelling and savouring what nature had to offer is what Africa is all about, for me.
Every guest should know those words and enjoy the entire experience; I have and I look forward to my return to Londolozi.
Hello, I know I’m a bit out of the main theme, but last night I watched a wonderful documentary, Hippo King in Luangwa, absolutely a treasure, they are among my favourite animals and watching a hippo life from his birth to his death was fantastic. He had a very important relationship (mutual) with the imposing sausage tree and other animals, he had to face the draught and predators… then funny scenes like the encounter with elephants, a leopard he decided to follow for a while.. a superb music and direction make this a must to see. I look forward to reading news on hippos in Londolozi
Afternoon well spent Dan. Your images are awesome and the colors are stunning of the sunsets with the buffalo’s in the foreground. I see there are quite a few calves as well. Solidarity and serenity is all a person needs in the bush.
What a great day. Sure beats running errands in the suburbs! 😊
Your posts always have such depth and thoughtfulness in them. I appreciate the journeys that you take us on every time. This was a lovely afternoon spent with you 🙂 Thank you!
All of you at Londolozi really do have the most wonderful place to work at.
I envy you all that you can just take a car during a free day or half day and venture out into the bush and sit with the animals as long as you want.
Beautiful photos, Dan
Taking an afternoon to enjoy and explore is so rewarding. Thanks for sharing.
Great post Dan, and thank you for the intimate look into you private time at Londolozi! Albeit rare, it seems like a beautiful experience!