As far back as I can remember, I have always had a fascination with how animals in the African bush are grouped into collective nouns. The descriptive manner in which these collective nouns have been created through African folk law and passed through generations of people is rather fitting.

Being at Londolozi and having a huge variety of wildlife at our fingertips daily, has allowed me to take a deeper dive into the collective nouns. These terms not only reflect the behaviour and characteristics of the animals but also add a poetic touch to our understanding of these animals.

Below, I’m going to provide you with the collective nouns I find the most fascinating here at Londolozi.

1. A Leap of Leopards

Though typically solitary animals, when you’re lucky enough to witness a group of these majestic creatures, it’s called a ‘leap of leopards.’ The term ‘leap’ beautifully captures their grace and agility, particularly when they move effortlessly through the branches of trees while hunting. It’s a fitting nod to their stealthy, powerful movements, highlighting both their elegance and their prowess as hunters.

2. A Parade of Elephants

While a group of elephants is often referred to as a herd, the term ‘parade’ feels especially fitting. Elephants are deeply social creatures, and ‘parade’ beautifully conveys the sense of unity and strength within their family groups. As they move together across the landscape, their presence is both commanding and graceful, making ‘parade’ a perfect reflection of the familial bond shared by these gentle giants.

3. A Pride of Lions

One of the most iconic collective nouns for me is the ‘pride’ of lions. As Africa’s apex predator, the term ‘pride’ perfectly symbolizes the teamwork and strength that define these majestic animals. Lions have strong family dynamics, with each member playing a crucial role in the group’s survival. This collective noun not only reflects their regal presence but also the cooperative nature that is key to their success as hunters and protectors of their territory.

4. A Prickle of Porcupines

Possibly the most apt collective noun is for porcupines—a ‘prickle.’ This term perfectly refers to the spiny quills they use for protection. Although porcupines are typically solitary creatures, when they do gather in groups, the display of sharp quills serves as a clear reminder of their effective defence mechanism. ‘Prickle’ not only describes their appearance but also highlights the caution they inspire in potential predators.

5. A Wake of Vultures

A group of vultures referred to as a ‘wake’ evokes the sombre image of the aftermath of death, symbolizing their role as scavengers. This term is used when they are gathered around a carcass, reflecting their essential function in cleaning up decaying meat and maintaining ecosystem health. Different collective nouns apply depending on the vultures’ activity. For instance, vultures soaring high on thermals as they scan for carcasses are known as a ‘kettle.’ When perched in trees, they’re called a ‘committee,’ ‘venue,’ or ‘volt.’ And when they descend to feast, they’re called a ‘wake’—a term we find beautifully fitting.”

6. A Parliament of Owls

When owls gather in groups, they are called a ‘parliament’—a nod to their association with wisdom and knowledge. This term perfectly captures their mysterious, almost regal presence, especially when they perch silently under the moonlight. Their calm, watchful demeanor gives them an air of authority, making ‘parliament’ an especially fitting collective noun for these enigmatic birds.

7. A Crash of Rhinos

The term ‘crash’ perfectly captures the essence of rhinos—formidable and powerful creatures that can seem clumsy at times, especially when on the move. Despite their size and strength, rhinos have a tendency to dart off impulsively when startled or threatened, which makes ‘crash’ a wonderfully descriptive collective noun. It evokes both their physical presence and the occasional chaos of their movements. Rhinos may appear slow and lumbering, but when they decide to move, their speed and power are undeniable, making ‘a crash of rhinos’ an apt and fascinating term for these remarkable animals.

8. A Dazzle of Zebra

A group of zebras is fittingly called a ‘dazzle,’ a term that reflects the mesmerizing effect of their striking black-and-white stripes. When seen together, their coats create a visually captivating display, almost like an optical illusion, especially when they move as a herd. The term ‘dazzle’ not only describes the beauty of their patterns but also hints at the confusion these stripes can cause predators, blending individual zebras into a bewildering mass. Watching them roam across the landscape at Londolozi is truly a dazzling experience.

9. A Business of Mongoose

This collective noun is one of my favourites: ‘A business of mongoose’ perfectly captures the essence of these highly social animals. Often found living in groups, their constant activity and vigilance are reflected in the term. It evokes their busy nature as they forage together, all the while staying alert for predators and looking out for one another. The sense of teamwork and industriousness makes ‘business’ a wonderfully fitting description for these fascinating creatures.

Collective Nouns add a huge appreciation to these incredible animals that we see around Londolozi on a daily basis. These are only a few of the incredible terms we use to group these animals, be sure to ask your guide for some more collective nouns when next at Londolozi.