A Week in the Bush Vol. 527
on Dec 11, 2024Driving up our private airstrip took an unexpected turn when we found the Nkuhuma and Talamati males lying right next to the terminal building. Enjoying the cooler morning temperature, these males were both very full as they clearly had a meal recently and were busy digesting their food. With the current heatwave we are experiencing these males won't move far and will look for a thicket to escape the heat and sleep, preparing themselves to move again as soon as night falls.
A couple of days later, in the same area, our attention was drawn to vultures landing nearby. Intrigued, we followed their activity and discovered the remains of a buffalo carcass, which the vultures were eagerly scavenging.
Relying on our local knowledge, we headed toward the nearest water source, knowing that the rising morning temperatures would likely drive predators to seek hydration. As expected, we found the Talamati and Nkuhuma males resting in the shade, panting heavily after their meal. Having satisfied both their hunger and thirst, these formidable lions are likely to remain in the area throughout the day, conserving energy until the cooler evening hours.
Their caution is warranted, as the vultures' presence could easily draw unwanted attention to their location, prompting them to stay vigilant while avoiding unnecessary confrontation.
We were fortunate to locate the Msuthlu Pride near Bush Lodge, accompanied by the impressive dark-maned Gijima male. Seeking refuge from the intense heat, the pride was in excellent condition, clearly having enjoyed a recent meal.
Amid growing pressure from younger male lions, the Gijima males have been spending extended periods apart, each safeguarding their respective prides and ensuring their cubs remain healthy and strong. However, a reunion will soon be crucial; should they face significant challenges, their collective strength will be vital to maintaining their hard-fought dominance. Lion dynamics are ever-changing, and these formidable males must remain united to secure the legacy they have built.
Later in the week, the Gijima males were reunited and fast asleep in a wide-open area. Sitting quietly with them, we listened to the rhythmic sound of their calm breathing, in the tranquillity of nature. As the sun broke through the clouds, the males began to stir, stretching lazily before making their way toward a thicker, shaded area to continue their rest. It has been quite some time since we last saw both Gijima males together, and their reunion is a hopeful sign. With their renewed partnership, they are better poised to protect their prides and ensure the safety of their cubs.
We decided to follow up on the Msuthlu Pride and found them exactly where we had left them in the morning. With the soaring daytime temperatures, these lions conserve their energy by remaining inactive during the heat, relying on the cooler nighttime hours to hunt effectively. As evening approaches, this pride is likely to begin their hunt, especially with the females showing signs of hunger. Renowned for their exceptional hunting skills, they are sure to secure a meal soon, providing vital nutrients for the entire pride and supporting the growth and strength of the younger members.
We trailed a female cheetah and her cubs as they moved through the thickets until they paused on a termite mound. Shortly after, the female began jogging into the thickets, leaving her cubs behind.
Moments later, we heard the impalas' sharp alarm calls, followed by the female's distinct contact call. The cubs eagerly dashed toward her direction, and as we followed, we discovered she had successfully taken down an impala lamb. Though this kill would not provide a substantial meal, it would still replenish her body with vital nutrients and protein. This energy boost will support her in maintaining her strength to hunt again and ensure her cubs stay healthy.
After spending most of our morning drive tracking a male leopard, our patience was finally rewarded when Khulwana emerged, crossing the road in front of us with a young impala lamb he had successfully hunted. We followed him as he moved down a drainage line into a dense thicket, seeking relief from the scorching heat. Once there, he settled in the shade, panting heavily, clearly exhausted from the chase and the rising temperatures.
Later in the afternoon, we returned to find him still resting. He hadn't touched his kill, likely waiting for the sun to set and the air to cool before feeding on his hard-earned meal and continuing his activities.
Driving along one of our boundaries immediately took a turn for the better when we spotted Tengile’s daughter slowly making her way towards our reserve, her focus was set on a nearby impala herd with lots of lambs. We followed her through the thickets but the distinct alarm call from the impalas forced her to retreat towards a drainage line. This young female will look for a comfortable spot out of the heat to spend her day before moving on again when the light starts fading and temperatures drop.
We spotted a young male leopard hiding behind a termite mound. We stopped immediately, giving him space and allowing him to determine his next move. After a brief pause, he emerged gracefully, showcasing his striking beauty. Not long after, he began to stalk a group of nearby warthogs. Despite his stealth, the hunt was unsuccessful, and he retreated deeper into the bush. With temperatures cooler than in recent weeks, predators like him are taking advantage of the more comfortable conditions to extend their hunting activity well into the day.
We sat by a waterhole in the late afternoon, watching as a majestic elephant bull approached. He had spent the day feeding and was visibly delighted to finally quench his thirst. Elephants, being water-dependent animals, must drink daily, and this one’s excitement was unmistakable. We observed in awe as he drank, then playfully sprayed water around, sharing his joy in a truly captivating display.
With sightings of these Saddle-billed storks usually being very brief, we were spoiled by this calm female going about her business not caring about our presence. The easiest way for us to distinguish between sexes is by looking at their eyes - males have black eyes while females have bright yellow eyes.
These birds are unfortunately becoming very rare as habitats are destroyed outside protected areas and it is estimated that there are less than 150 breeding pairs left in South Africa. Fortunately, these birds still flourish on our reserve as their habitats are still natural and protected.
As the late afternoon light softened, this female hyena began to stir, gradually shaking off the drowsiness of her daytime rest. Slowly but purposefully, she prepared to set out in search of her next meal. Her formidable teeth, designed to crush through bone and tear tough hides, are a testament to her role as a consummate scavenger and predator, ensuring nothing is left to waste. Hyenas spend their daylight hours in dense vegetation, seeking shade and security, before emerging with renewed energy as the sun dips below the horizon.
Our eyes were drawn to a Tree squirrel perched on a small termite mound, busily nibbling on a Marula pip. These resourceful squirrels often search for Marula pips from the previous year, determined to crack through the tough outer layer to access the soft, nutrient-rich nuts inside. Packed with protein and iron, these nuts are a valuable and delicious treat for them.
Until next time…
Blog by Wendy Claase
Images by Ruan Mey
