Another summer morning at the Londolozi Game Reserve greeted us with its golden light, bringing a sense of renewal and celebration that felt fitting for the season. With Christmas just around the corner, the atmosphere was imbued with a spirit of anticipation, not unlike the excitement of unwrapping gifts under the tree.
The sun was already warming the horizon as we set off on our morning game drive. Our mission: to track down a pack of wild dogs. Tracker Veatence, brimming with enthusiasm, shared that he had heard the characteristic calls of the wild dogs across the river in the “North,” as those who have visited Londolozi fondly know it. These nomadic predators were on the move, and we crossed the Sand River, hoping to intercept their tracks—or even catch a glimpse of them racing through the bush.
Little did we know, the morning had a gift of its own waiting for us—one we could never have anticipated.
Little did we know, the morning had an entirely different adventure in store.
As we navigated alongside the Manyeleti riverbed, the unmistakable bark of kudus pierced the air. Kudus rarely alarm unless a predator is nearby, and we immediately shifted our focus. Following the direction of their calls, we arrived just in time to see the Ngungwe Female, a leopard renowned for her elusive nature, crossing the road.
Young inquisitive beautiful female, bordering on independence as of November 2021
For those familiar with the Londolozi blog, you’ll know that sightings of the Ngungwe Female are rare and precious. By nature, she is one of the reserve’s more secretive leopards, often keeping to herself in the rugged terrain of central Marthly. Less than a week ago, a fellow ranger had spotted her near Marthly Pools and remarked on her noticeably swollen belly—a clear sign that she was pregnant.
As she gracefully moved past our vehicle, we closely examined her for any further signs. Her slightly saggy lower belly revealed a milk pouch, confirming, what we thought at this stage, that she was heavily pregnant. Climbing onto boulders, pausing to listen, and giving us a full display of her elegance, she seemed to be on a mission.
After being robbed by hyenas, the Piccadilly Female and her cub sat upon beautiful granite boulders, potentially to warm up on a cold winter morning.
Here, I shared her story with my guests: born in April 2020 to the Piccadilly Female, she gained independence towards the end of 2021 and had since been carving out her territory in the central Marthly area. At four years old, she was in her prime—a time of maturity and readiness to begin her journey as a mother.
Her current behaviour and physical signs had us wondering: could she have already had her cubs?
We followed her cautiously as she navigated the rocky terrain, pausing briefly before continuing with determined strides. This area, dotted with rocky outcrops, seemed ideal for a leopard to establish a den. Leopards are known for their meticulous selection of secluded, well-protected sites to ensure their cubs’ safety from predators. As she approached one of the larger outcrops near Marthly Pools, we knew our time with her would have to end. The area was inaccessible by vehicle.
Before we left, she treated us to a breathtaking moment, perched on a fallen marula tree at the base of a rocky outcrop, the lush green foliage framing her in what can only be described as a photographer’s dream. As she groomed herself, I noticed some faint liquid drop from her belly onto the log. A closer inspection through binoculars revealed the unmistakable presence of milk. She was lactating. In an instant, the realization struck—she had already given birth!
Excitement filled the vehicle as I handed the binoculars to Veatence, who confirmed what we had just witnessed. The Ngungwe Female was no longer just a solitary leopard; she was a mother. Our exhilaration grew as she descended the fallen tree only to climb the rocky outcrop in front of our vehicle, her movements deliberate and purposeful. Then, at the summit of a boulder, she gave a soft contact call. Moments later, a faint whine responded from somewhere within the crevices of the rocks.
It was official, the Ngungwe Female had a den, and her cubs were nestled safely within.
Marthly Pools Koppies, the Ngungwe Female’s new den site.
Though we didn’t catch a glimpse of the cubs, the discovery of their existence was a monumental moment. Leopard dens are notoriously hard to find, and the Ngungwe Female’s careful planning and maternal instincts were evident. Questions buzzed in our minds: How many cubs were there? How old were they? Only time would reveal the answers. For now, we could only be in awe of the wonder we had witnessed. This first-time mother had chosen an inconspicuous and secure spot, a testament to her natural instincts. The rocky outcrop provided a perfect hiding spot against predators and ensured privacy from other disturbances.
As we drove away, leaving the Ngungwe Female in peace at her den, a sense of gratitude filled the air. The discovery of her cubs felt like a special gift from nature—a moment of magic during this festive time of year. Though we didn’t catch a glimpse of the little ones, the knowledge of their existence was enough to spark hope and joy.
In the spirit of Christmas, this moment reminds us of the power of renewal, the beauty of beginnings, and the importance of patience. Like unwrapping presents under the tree, the future holds the promise of surprises yet to come. If the Ngungwe Female’s journey as a mother continues as it began, we might one day witness her cubs emerge from the safety of the rocks, exploring their world for the very first time.
As the Londolozi team celebrates Christmas, we extend our warmest wishes to all our readers. May this season bring you moments of wonder, renewal, and connection, much like those we find in the wild. From all of us at Londolozi, Merry Christmas, and may the New Year be filled with the magic of nature’s gifts.
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on A Christmas Surprise: Discovering the Ngungwe Female Leopard’s Den