“Habituation” – with regards to animals, habituation is a form of non-associative learning in which an animal’s innate response to a stimulus decreases after repeated or prolonged presentations of that stimulus.
A well referred to term here at Londolozi, habituation refers to the process of gradually acclimating wild animals to the presence of humans and Land Rovers, and minimizing their fear response. This process is particularly important for elusive and potentially dangerous species.
The process of habituation happens from the very beginning as cubs. New to this world, they are often skittish and that is why as a team, we show extra sensitivity and reverence around their den sites. However, as the cubs continue to grow, not only do they slowly become familiar with the sounds of the vehicles, but they also begin to mimic and learn from the relaxed behaviours of their mothers around the vehicle – which is all part of the process!
I’ve been thinking about this term (well, the whole concept of habituation) quite a lot recently and thought I would unpack what it means and represents to us at Londolozi; as South Africans; and for us all as global ambassadors for wildlife conservation.
The Three Rivers Young Male rests on the bank of a dry riverbed, eye level with our vehicle. Having been exposed to the Londolozi vehicles from a very young age, and still growing into his new-found independence, the process of habituation continues with each and every sighting we have of him.
Somewhat skittish after becoming independent, he is an impressive young male with a rich golden coat.
Tourism and Education
The notorious “Big Five” species are a major attraction for tourists visiting this reserve. Habituated lions and leopards are more likely to be visible and approachable, providing guests with the opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. This not only enhances the overall tourism experience but also fosters a greater understanding and appreciation for wildlife conservation amongst all of us privileged to view them.
Let sleeping leopards lie.
A single cub of the Ximungwe Female's second litter. Initially rather skittish but is very relaxed now. Birth mark in his left eye.
Moreover, this fragile relationship between man and animal in a protected area like the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve ultimately contributes to the significant source of revenue that tourism brings into South Africa. Having habituated leopards can attract more tourists, leading to increased revenue that can then be reinvested into conservation initiatives, community development, and anti-poaching efforts. And I believe Londolozi is no better ambassador in this regard – simply take a look at our most recent initiative: the Londolozi Ripple Fund.
Research and Monitoring
Being able to view animals regularly in a non-invasive manner allows us to bare witness to their natural behaviours and daily dynamics. That being said, even our observations of these animals only gain us access to a snippet of their daily lives, as Dan describes in his blog on How much time do we actually spend with animals? So the more relaxed predators become with the vehicle and presence of human observation, the more likely we’ll be able to view them for longer periods of time (depending on the circumstance and terrain of the sighting, of course).
We are often rewarded with viewing predators on their territorial patrol, which entails them utilizing the roads as a path of least resistance.
Even though we are not with these animals every minute of every day, viewing relaxed animals means they can be monitored more closely by researchers and conservationists, ultimately contributing to more detailed behavioural studies, population assessments and/or health monitoring.
For example, above and beyond Londolozi’s personal story with its leopards, we share all our ‘data’ on these animals (data on all large predators) with a global organization called Panthera. This organization is devoted to the research and conservation efforts of 40 wild cat species around the world, providing valuable insight into their ecology, social structures, hunting behaviours and interactions with other species.
The dominant Senegal Bush Male Leopard approaches our vehicle whilst scent marking and roaring, completely uninterested in the presence of us observing him.
Initially seen as a young male in 2016, this leopard only properly established territory on Londolozi in mid-2019
Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation
There is no denying that inhabiting a region where local communities and wildlife share the same environment has the potential to lead to possible conflict. Habituated predators, which are more accustomed to human presence, may be less likely to view humans as immediate threats, reducing the likelihood of aggressive encounters and retaliatory actions by humans.
Having been viewed by vehicles from an early age, this leopard is supremely relaxed around Land Rovers.
That being said, the wilderness is unpredictable and we’re constantly reminded of this fragile balance when we get to view a lioness walking across the Sand River boulders in front of one of the camp decks or to see tracks of a leopard in the car park before we have even set out on our morning game drive. There is so much beauty and magic in being able to share the same environment with these animals – but it depends on so much reverence, awareness and a deep understanding of each species.
Conservation Messaging and Long-term Protection
One of the first images captured here at Londolozi of the Mother Leopard carrying one of her cubs.
The original viewable leopard of Londolozi, if not Africa. In 1979 this leopard appeared as if by magic, allowing vehicles to view her.
Since the Mother Leopard in 1979, Londolozi has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitats. Through the tracking and personal journeys of each of these animals, we as the observers have become connected to their story, and their lives – thanks to the relaxed nature in which these animals have allowed us to view them.
This is a powerful tool that goes beyond just your safari experience; it enables us to hopefully gain further support for preserving our natural ecosystems and their wildlife for future generations.
How fortunate are we to witness motherly love in its most instinctive form: no matter what the species, watching a mother and her offspring interact is always a beautiful sighting and privilege given the vulnerability and comfortability that that mother has for allowing us to observe her. These are the types of moments that always reminds me of the power of habituation.
A gorgeous female who is found to the east of camp. Easily recognised by her 2:2 spot pattern she is often to be found in Marula trees.
What I feel particularly proud about is the fact that the process of habituation is continuous, and even though we may be viewing generations of leopards here at Londolozi (thanks to the efforts carried out by guides and trackers that have come before us), it is not something our current team take for granted. A lack of reverence or improper practices can very easily reverse future animal dynamics or lead to negative behavioural changes or stress. With this in mind, we strive to prioritise the sensitivity around these animals while viewing them. Constantly reviewing how we operate and manage ourselves as a team to ensure that the animals thrive in this wilderness and we get to view them in a natural state as possible.
The Ximungwe Female descends a fallen marula tree as a vehicle full of guests has front-row seats to this amazing scene.
Having been viewed by vehicles from an early age, this leopard is supremely relaxed around Land Rovers.
So, when you are on your next visit on safari and sitting in the back of one of our Land Rovers, just know that you are, in more ways than one, an active participant in a much greater effort in conservation. How lucky are we!
What an incredibly dazzling and informative article, Kate. Having been a recent beneficiary of habituation during our 16 day visit I can attest to its major benefits.
Such a special blog Kate, thank you. That reverence is something we never take for granted. Each time we are fortunate enough to experience such wonderful and amazing sightings we are filled with gratitude and awe and very aware of our responsibilities in this amazing cycle of life with these wonderful predators.
Kate, habituation is a life long process as we all know, but also a privilege that Londolozi shares with the world. Thank you for the blog and information.
I have again just had the most incredible and exciting sightings of the big five plus cheetah, plus all the other animals at Londolozi.
What makes these sightings really fantastic is the tolerance of these wild animals. They tolerate us to watch the most private and personal aspects of their lives, presenting their cubs and pups, tolerate us watching their mating a.s.o. This is certainly because of the careful way the habituating is done at Londolozi and the respect the animals get from us human animals.
As a guest, I think, that the animals find the respect at Londolozi that they deserve. It is something really precious and not self-evident.
That makes the safari experience here so special.
Lucky indeed 🙂
Thank you Kate for sharing your story on Habituation, Patience and Persistence. Everybody involved in practicing this needs a medal. Always keeping the animals interest first in mind and making sure every guest is safe and have the opportunity to see these magnificent animals in their own environment. Respect is the key word here for the animal, and the Rangers of Londolozi do just that. That is why they are so successful in showing the guests these amazing predators.
Kate, you have clearly highlighted the importance of letting animals take the lead on becoming habituated. Even with the sight of humans and the rattle of the vehicles, they go about their lives without missing a beat and for that I am grateful. Each sighting, as we sit quietly, is proof that the habituation process is working.
A lovely blog, Kate, sensitively presented.
Londolozi has been setting the bar high in terms of the best example for decades, and I’m so glad your philosophies and methods are catching on elsewhere. It gives me hope for the conservation of our wildernesses, and the dream for humans worldwide to remember it’s possible for all of us to live in harmony without having to dominate, subdue and kill nature (which has been the dominant colonialist mindset for far too long–to catastrophic effect). Now if only I could habituate my dog to the nail clippers! 🤔😂
Kate, sometimes we take it for granted when we are able to see the wildlife up close. We are aware of the constant respect for the lions and leopards given by the ranger team.
What a great piece Kate! Really emphasizes the importance of habituation and the balance that must be struck as well!
Every single leopard sighting should be held in reverence, and cherished forever. For if Londolozi had not introduced habituation of leopards into the world of safari, then these elusive gorgeous cats would be hidden and shy.
We have shared your excellent blog with several of our friends who are still in disbelief anout our proximity to the animals
I was reading this very interesting article by Kate when I had a look at the first photo. I am in that photo taking my own photo of an Ntsevu female with her cubs.