January at Moremi Crossing unfolded in the full rhythm of mid-summer in the Okavango Delta. Rainfall transformed the floodplains and islands into a vibrant green landscape, with fresh grazing and standing water across many of the low-lying areas. The rains encouraged strong movements of herbivores across the concession, and although the tall summer grass occasionally required careful scanning, the guiding teams continued to work tracks and calls to locate animals moving between the channels, islands and floodplains.
Lion activity was consistent during the month. A pride of thirteen lionesses with four cubs was encountered repeatedly as they moved through the concession, taking advantage of the high numbers of plains game grazing in the area. Fresh tracks were often located during morning drives and followed through the grasslands and island edges until the pride was found resting or feeding. Their movements were largely centred around the floodplains where prey species were concentrated.
Leopard activity was also recorded during the month. A solitary male was encountered on several occasions, typically moving through the concession during the early morning and late afternoon hours. His tracks were frequently picked up along the sandy paths and channel edges, and he was observed scent-marking and patrolling his territory.
African wild dogs were one of the highlights of the month. A pack of sixteen was encountered several times moving through the concession and was seen actively hunting across the open floodplains. Their movements were fast and purposeful, and several successful chases were observed as they pursued prey through the grasslands.
A male cheetah was also present in the area for a number of days. The cat was seen moving across the open sections of the concession where visibility was better and hunting opportunities were favourable.
Spotted hyenas were frequently encountered and were often seen feeding alongside black-backed jackals. On one notable occasion, a clan of around fourteen hyenas was observed feeding on the carcass of an elephant calf on the open floodplain, with jackals moving around the edges of the feeding group.
General game remained plentiful across the concession as the fresh grazing attracted large numbers of herbivores. Plains game made regular use of the floodplains and islands, creating good opportunities for predator encounters throughout the month.
Birdlife was particularly rich during this period. Both resident species and summer migrants were active across the wetlands and woodlands, with breeding behaviour, vibrant plumage and constant calls filling the landscape. The concentration of water in the pans and channels created ideal conditions for waterbirds and made the month especially rewarding for birding.
Evening sundowners were often taken at open vantage points overlooking lagoons and channels. Hippos could frequently be heard and seen in the water, while aquatic birds moved across the surface and tall palms framed the surrounding islands, creating a calm and classic Delta atmosphere.
Overall, January offered a productive and varied month of wildlife viewing, with the green season bringing abundant life and activity across the Moremi Crossing concession.
