A pack of twelve African wild dogs was observed on several occasions, displaying a high level of mobility as they actively hunted.
One particularly notable event took place when the pack successfully killed an impala right in front of the game vehicle. While the intensity of the scene elicited mixed reactions, it offered valuable insights into their natural behaviour.
Lion sightings were frequent throughout the concession. A pride of ten was regularly observed in the south-eastern sector, while another pride of seven was commonly seen along the eastern boundary adjoining the Moremi Game Reserve. This latter pride included cubs, which provided notable viewing opportunities. A highlight of the month was the sighting of the seven lions bringing down a buffalo—an uncommon and dramatic encounter within the concession. Most lion sightings occurred with the animals resting in shaded areas during the day. In several instances, our guiding and tracking team successfully located the prides by following spoor and vocalisations.
Leopard sightings were productive, though no kills were recorded this month. Most individuals were found resting on the ground or on tree branches during daytime drives. One notable encounter involved a female leopard observed moving cautiously through the camp area during the late afternoon. These sightings often required attentive tracking due to the species’ elusive nature.
Scavengers hunting
Spotted hyenas were encountered on most game drives. A notable sighting involved four individuals taking down a wildebeest—an unusual occurrence as hyenas are commonly regarded as scavengers. These particular individuals have shown increasing confidence in direct hunting, and their behaviour was closely observed and tracked by guides over several days.
General game viewing remained strong across the concession. Common sightings included Elephant, impala, zebra, wildebeest, hippo, and large concentrations of red lechwe. Many of these species were visible directly from the camp’s main area, particularly around the lagoon, offering continuous wildlife activity even between scheduled activities.
Night drives provided sightings of several small mammal species, including genets, servals, civets, scrub hares, and spring hares. These nocturnal animals were typically observed moving through open areas and thickets, often illuminated by the spotlight during evening drives.
Revitalised Channels and wings over the water
After the annual floodwaters arrived from Angola, the river channel was revitalized. This resulted in increased activity among reptiles. Nile crocodiles and water monitor lizards were often spotted basking along the riverbanks during daytime drives. These species had been less visible during the previous dry period.
Birding remained a highlight of the concession. Regular sightings included African fish eagles, various kingfishers, egrets, marabou storks, vultures, brown snake eagles, and cattle egrets. The diversity of habitats around the channels and floodplains supported a wide range of both resident and migratory species, attracting the attention of birding enthusiasts.
