Lion sightings were frequent throughout the month, with several prides and individuals observed across the concession. Early in the month, a male with two lionesses was seen regularly before being displaced by the coalition of three dominant males from the Kwara Pride. This pride, which holds the largest territory in the concession, was consistently tracked and observed in the western and northern sectors, including the area around Last Mabala and Double Crossing. They were also seen feeding on a giraffe kill near Tsum-Tsum, surrounded by scavengers—over one hundred vultures and several hyenas.
The Mma Leitho Pride, consisting of one lioness, four subadults, and two nomadic males, was regularly recorded in the eastern sector. These males were observed marking territory around Sable Island and Mogotho Road, where they were seen actively hunting. One encounter involved the pride covered in blood, though no carcass was located due to the presence of six hyenas in the area, suggesting the remains had already been consumed.
Lionesses with cubs were also observed on multiple occasions near the Bat-Eared Fox area and north of camp. Two intruding males continued to move through the concession, and a shy solitary male was also recorded. Multiple successful kills were tracked and observed, including zebra, buffalo, and red lechwe.
Leopard sightings were reliable and often the result of successful tracking efforts. Rra Tsebe, the resident male, was seen west of Lechwe Plains and again near Mmoloki Mabala, actively patrolling his territory. Pressure from subadult males appeared to influence his movements.
A female leopard was observed near Ngorongoro calling softly, likely indicating the presence of cubs. Another female with two cubs was spotted north of New Bridge, though the cubs remained shy. A particularly notable sighting occurred along Leopard Loop Road, where a female was followed from stalking to successfully killing a baboon and then hoisting the carcass into a tree.
Cheetah sightings, while less frequent, were still productive. A subadult male was located east of the boat station after being tracked for over an hour. A coalition of two resident males was seen on several occasions in the valley east of Tsum Tsum and near Ngorongoro. These brothers were later observed hunting and successfully killing an impala in the southwest. Towards the end of the month, a solitary male cheetah was seen at Last Mabala, including two sightings on warthog kills and one of him feeding on a piglet.
Hyena Encounters and Wild Dog Hunts
Hyenas were observed regularly, both as individuals and in groups. A group of three was found feeding on a hippo carcass at Lechwe Plains, surrounded by a large number of white-backed vultures. Though no active den sites were located, hyenas were seen on most morning and evening drives, often near predator kill sites or moving through open areas.
Several African wild dog packs were recorded during the month. A large pack, which moves between Shinde, Kwara, and Khwai, was seen on at least five occasions. Several African wild dog packs were recorded during the month. A large pack, which moves between Shinde, Kwara, and Khwai, was seen on at least five occasions. Mating behaviour was observed in April. However, sadly, by the end of the month, their numbers had reduced from 22 to 18, reportedly due to the loss of both alpha individuals. It will be interesting to see whether others in the pack now assume dominant roles and attempt to breed.
A separate pack of eight was seen on three occasions before moving out of the area. One notable sighting occurred near the waterhole in front of camp during a dinner under the stars, where the pack was observed hunting by moonlight. Another exciting event took place during breakfast, when the same pack was seen chasing and successfully bringing down an impala.
Plains Game and the Pulse of the Floodplain
Herds of elephant and buffalo were seen regularly, particularly in the afternoons when they came to drink. Plains game included zebra, tsessebe, red lechwe, common reedbuck, steenbok, kudu, and giraffe. Impalas remained active in rutting behaviour.
Nocturnal species were regularly recorded during night drives. Springhares were consistently seen, along with servals, civets, African wild cats, honey badgers, jackals, genets, and bush babies. A serval was observed successfully hunting a mouse, and a small-spotted cat approached a vehicle closely before turning away.
Reptile activity included sightings of puff adders, vine snakes, black mambas, cobras, crocodiles, and water monitors, particularly near the river during boat excursions. Striped skinks and geckos were also observed. Insect activity decreased due to the colder conditions, although some emperor moths and dung beetles were still seen.
Resident bird species were prevalent throughout the concession. Common sightings included African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks, ground hornbills, western osprey (seen once feeding), and various kingfishers and bee-eaters.
The concession underwent noticeable seasonal changes. The grass began to brown as winter approached. New floodwaters arrived early this year due to good rains, filling floodplains and raising water levels in the Kwara Lagoon, which reached near the campfire area. Seasonal pans began drying, but the main channels remained well-supplied, supporting aquatic activity.
Boat cruises operated daily and were productive, with high water levels supporting excellent birdwatching and scenic views. Walking safaris took advantage of the cooler temperatures and provided opportunities to focus on tracking, plant life, and smaller fauna not typically observed during game drives. Mokoro excursions through the lagoon continued throughout the month. Guests enjoyed sightings of frogs, reeds, and blooming water lilies, with the tranquil setting offering a unique experience.
Clear winter skies allowed for excellent stargazing. Notable constellations and planets included the Southern Cross, the Milky Way, Jupiter in the evening, Venus in the morning, Orion, and Scorpius.
