A coalition of two cheetah brothers was first seen resting along the Cutline. As the afternoon cooled, they became active and successfully hunted an impala, solidifying their reputation as the stars of the savannah.
The stars of our night drives this month were the usual foraging aardwolves, but there were precious pangolin sightings, too!
Even more unusual was the clash of African wild dog packs over an impala prey. Guests witnessed a vicious altercation between hyenas and African wild dogs one morning. The wild dogs, feeding on a freshly killed impala, drew the hyenas’ attention, sparking a ferocious battle over the carcass.
Just when guests thought the excitement had peaked, another pack of wild dogs arrived, chasing away the original pack to claim the prize. This unexpected turn of events made for an unforgettable morning and highlighted the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings.
The one pack of six African wild dogs, visibly full from a recent meal, was also seen resting by Watercut before they moved towards Bee-eater Road.
The lions of Lagoon Camp
October began with thrilling sightings of the resident Holy Pride, which consisted of about 12 lions. A female lion with two adorable cubs, aged around 2 to 4 months, was spotted taking down a warthog in a remarkable display of hunting prowess.
The elusive Mma Mosetlha Pride returned triumphantly to the Kwando Private Concession, showcasing their strength and presence.
Two majestic male lions were also seen resting serenely by Kwena Lagoon. On Badisa Road, two male lions feasted on a sable (this antelope is not typically part of their diet). Meanwhile, along Humbok One Road, the Mma Mosetlha Pride took advantage of a natural opportunity, scavenging on a deceased elephant.
Other lion sightings included remarkable moments at Single Baobab and east of Muddy Waters. One of the three brothers from Lebala wandered onto Lagoon territory with a lioness and her three-month-old cubs, a delightful and unexpected visit.
Along Maheke Road, a den of over 20 spotted hyenas offered guests an incredible appreciation of their social dynamics. The airstrip and Bee-eater Road were also hotspots for hyena sightings.
Regular leopard sightings were recorded along Main Road and Water Affairs Island. A mother leopard with two cubs, aged 4 to 5 months, was frequently spotted along Number 1 Road and Water Affairs Island. They were even seen scavenging on an impala at Upper Kwando. Another unforgettable encounter involved a leopard with an impala carcass along Bee-eater Road.
Large herds of elephants and hippos frequented Lagoon Camp, Water Affairs Island, and the 1st and 2nd lagoons. Buffalo herds, sable antelopes, elands, and roan antelopes were also regularly sighted, along with side-striped jackals. The lagoons and waterways, including the 1st Lagoon, Muddy Waters, and Water Affairs Island, were home to some of the largest crocodiles, sunbathing along the banks or swimming stealthily. Water monitor lizards occasionally appeared, adding to the thrill of the sightings.
(Please note: For the safety of the animals, we do not disclose the precise location of either rhino or pangolin sightings. Accompanying pictures are from our Kwando Photo Library, which consists of all your great photo submissions over the years. It may not be the most up-to-date, but we felt it was worthy of a feature alongside this month’s Sightings Report!)
