There is no denying that few experiences whilst on safari rival the exhilarating feeling of being able to lock eyes with some of Africa’s most iconic animals. The opportunity to gaze into the eye of these magnificent animals at close quarters unveils a deeper connection to the natural world. In this blog, we delve into the captivating array of eye colours exhibited by the mammals encountered at Londolozi, uncovering the reasons behind their distinctive hues.

One of the most intimidating sights on safari… Locking eyes with a dominant male Lion.

Rangers Robyn, Kate and Keagan have already provided some fascinating insights into the complex world of eyesight in the African bush:

• How Leopards See the World
• Structural Adaptations: Eyes
• Eyesight: The Surprising Truth About Our Senses, Part 2

However, this blog will focus primarily on colour of the actual eyes and why there are such striking differences between predators and prey. To understand this phenomenon we must first ask the following:

“What are the primary factors that influence eye colouration?”

Genetics

Animals’ distinctive genetic makeup dictates the amount and distribution of pigments within the iris (the coloured part of the eye). Genes will control the production of melanin, the primary pigment responsible for eye colouration. Any variations in the genetic make-up of these animals result in a wide range of colours. Inherited genetics passed down from parents can also play a significant role in determining an animal’s eye colouration.

One Kambula mother with her two cubs enjoying the shade in a dry riverbed in the central parts of Londolozi.

Melanin Production

Melanin is a pigment responsible for skin, hair and eye colouration which, plays a vital role in determining eye colouration. Therefore, the amount of melanin present will influence the intensity and hue of colour. Higher concentrations of melanin present will result in darker colours, while lower concentrations produce lighter shades. Melanin production is regulated by genes and can be regulated by environmental factors.

However, to complicate matters, Melanin production can change over time, leading to a change in eye colour. This phenomenon holds true for most mammals (including humans) however, it is most notable with the Leopards of Londolozi. Cubs are born blind and will open their eyes after 3-4 days, and at that time they will boast a mesmerizing blue hue. However, this eye colour is temporary. As they begin to age, roughly between six weeks and three months old, their eye colour changes to their adult eye colouration.

Cubs are born with the most mesmerizing blue eyes. This is due to their limited exposure to light and reduced levels of melanin production leading to a lighter shade of eye colouration.

As cubs begin to age and the exposure to light increases, so do their levels of melanin production. This ultimately leads to a change in the colour of their eyes.

Environmental Factors

Conditions such as exposure to light and preferred habitat type can influence mammalian eye colouration. Animals that thrive in sun-drenched regions may develop darker eye shades as a result of increased melanin production. These increased levels of melanin provide protection against harmful UV radiation. Conversely, species inhabiting darker or shaded habitats may have lighter-shaded eyes to enhance their vision in low-light conditions.

A beautiful close-up of the eye of a Buffalo. Often occupying the southwestern grasslands of Londolozi, their darker eye colour provides UV protection from the blistering sunlight.

The ‘honeyed’ hues of an elephant’s eye make for the most captivating close-up photography and highlight the darker iris, better suited to diurnal activity.

Evolutionary Adaptations

Eye colouration can be shaped by natural selection and adaptation to specific ecological niches. Eye colouration may offer advantages, particularly in terms of visual acuity. Depending on the animal’s lifestyle and habitat (Chronobiology). For example, predators often have lighter-coloured eyes, which can help reduce glare and enhance their vision during hunting activities. Prey species may have darker eye colouration to protect against UV radiation and improve contrast sensitivity for detecting predators.

The Young Male Cheetah’s eyes looked like a pot of honey as the sun ray hit them.

With this in mind, it is evident that Londolozi’s predators often boast lighter-coloured eyes, such as golden yellows or piercing blues, prey species tend to display darker hues, ranging from rich browns to deep blacks. But why this stark contrast in eye colouration between Africa’s hunters and the hunted?

The answer lies in the intricate balance between evolutionary pressures and ecological dynamics that shape the lives of these animals. Predators, such as lions and leopards are masters of the nocturnal hunt, relying on keen eyesight to stalk and capture their prey in the dark. In the vast landscapes of Londolozi, where predators reign supreme, light-coloured eyes confer distinct advantages.

Cheetahs and wild dogs, which are mostly diurnal, have darker irises indicating a higher concentration of melanin present and are better suited to activity in the brighter hours where UV rays are higher.

An African Wild Dog scans his surroundings with intent in the golden morning light.

In contrast, Londolozi’s prey species, from antelope and zebras to giraffes and buffalo, face a different set of challenges in their daily struggle for survival. As the primary targets of predation, these animals must remain attuned to the slightest signs of danger. Dark-coloured eyes, with their higher concentration of melanin pigment, offer several advantages in this regard.

Firstly, darker eyes provide enhanced protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation. In the harsh African sun, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can damage the delicate structures of the eye, leading to vision impairment and other health issues. By producing more melanin, prey species can shield their eyes from UV radiation, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring optimal visual function.

Secondly, dark-coloured eyes may also improve contrast sensitivity, allowing prey species to detect subtle movements and camouflaged predators more effectively. In the dense vegetation of Londolozi’s diverse range of habitats, where predators often lurk unseen, the ability to perceive fine details can mean the difference between life and death. Darker eyes enhance contrast sensitivity by absorbing stray light and reducing glare, thereby sharpening the prey’s ability to spot potential threats in their environment.

A herd of Impala stands alert, united in their watchful gaze towards a potential threat, exemplifying the power of collective awareness.

The captivating gaze of two zebras as their striped beauty is mirrored in their dark yet gentle and inquisitive eyes.

In summary, the contrasting eye colours observed in both predator and prey species reflect the unique ecological roles and adaptive strategies that have evolved in response to the challenges of their respective lifestyles. Whether light or dark, the colour of an animal’s eyes offers a window into the complex interplay between biology, behaviour, and environment that shapes life in the African bush.

Let me know in the comments below, which is your favourite set of eyes to gaze into whilst on a safari at Londolozi?