January at Nxai Pan Camp was a month of exceptional wildlife sightings, from the local lion prides to relaxed leopard encounters.
The lush, green landscape and abundant life made for a truly magical experience. The rains have brought new life to the area, enriching the environment and creating the perfect conditions for predator and prey.
The abundant prey and water provided during the green season ensured consistent lion sightings throughout the month, making each encounter an exciting chapter in the ongoing story of Nxai Pan’s predators. Lions appeared to be everywhere, displaying a captivating blend of rest and activity. We spotted three lionesses near the famous Baines’ Baobabs. They belonged to a pride different from the one we typically observe. Their calm demeanour indicated they were content, but we knew they wouldn’t rest long.
During the month, our resident pride, which consisted of five lionesses and two cubs, provided some incredible sightings – we observed the pride feeding on a subadult zebra at the wildlife waterhole. The circle of life was evident as the cubs eagerly learned from the experienced lionesses.
The lions were adapting to the green season, staying close to the pan where prey was plentiful. We tracked and found a coalition of two male lions resting beneath the shade along Middle Road, unperturbed by our presence. Throughout the month our resident pride continued to offer us excellent sightings. We watched them exploring the area near Xomae Campsites Road with their cubs. We also sighted two male lions resting under the shade of Baobab Loop. However, the most remarkable sighting occurred at the end of the month. We were in awe as we watched our resident lionesses feast on a subadult giraffe near the Boga 3 campsite, just off West Road. This rare moment was a powerful reminder of the lionesses’ strength and skills as hunters.
Leopard sightings were equally exciting. We tracked and found a female sub-adult leopard on our way to Baines Baobab, just after passing the Xomae Gate. She was incredibly relaxed, resting under the shade, allowing us to get close enough to admire her.
Although we didn’t see any cheetahs this month, we did find evidence of their presence through their tracks near Baines Baobab, indicating they had been active in the area.
African wild dogs and hyenas en route to Baines’ Baobabs
African wild dog sightings were also good this month. We observed a pack of four African wild dogs near the wildlife waterhole, feeding on a fully grown female kudu and we also watched them hunting an impala near the camp; however, the impala managed to escape, but it was a reminder of the constant action in the bush.
We also tracked four wild dogs crossing the A1 Road as they approached Baines’ Baobabs. Their swift movement and natural grace made for a beautiful sight as they disappeared into the brush, continuing their endless pursuit for prey.
There were plenty of hyena sightings, particularly of the iconic spotted hyena, we spotted one resting lazily on the road to Baines Baobab, unfazed by our presence. This solitary moment in the sun highlighted a stark contrast to the chaotic feeding frenzies these animals often participate in. We also heard their calls near the camp waterhole, a reminder of their constant presence in the area.
Green season and the abundance of wildlife
This month’s general abundance of wildlife was remarkable, as animals flocked to the area in response to the rainy season. Zebras appeared in the pan, grazing in small herds and drawn by the lush vegetation. Their distinctive black-and-white stripes contrasted beautifully with the surrounding greenery. Large herds of wildebeest moved across the plains, creating a magnificent spectacle.
Giraffes were seen throughout the month. The sight of these towering creatures gracefully traversing the lush landscape reminded us of the plentiful food and water available in the area. Springboks, often accompanied by their adorable offspring, added a light-hearted touch to the environment.
Breeding herds of elephants and bachelor herds could be observed during the day near our waterholes. The sheer number of elephants this month was a testament of the green season as they took full advantage of the abundant resources. Impalas were also seen in large numbers, many with their newborns.
Small mammals also provided plenty of interest throughout the month. Bat-eared foxes were often seen in packs around the pan. Their playful antics and curious eyes entertained our guests. Scrub hares were frequently spotted in front of the camp, and black-backed jackals with their puppies were seen scurrying around the pans. A particularly special moment occurred when we were fortunate enough to observe two African wildcats resting in the shade near a natural waterhole along Baobab Loop. It was a rare and wonderful sighting of these elusive creatures.
Birders Paradise
Birdwatching was exceptional this month. We observed a flock of wattled cranes, with their distinctive calls echoing across the landscape. Southern carmine bee-eaters, blue-cheeked bee-eaters, and European bee-eaters graced the skies, adding a vibrant splash of color. Raptors, including buzzards, yellow-billed kites, open-billed storks, vultures, and red-footed falcons, were also frequently sighted. Spoonbills and European rollers were spotted near Baines Baobab, providing a diverse range of birdlife for our guests to enjoy.
Though the rains often brought clouds, we had several clear nights where the stars were visible in their full glory. The constellations Gemini, Canopus, Scorpio, Procyon, and the Southern Cross were all visible, making for a stunning night sky. Our camp, nestled in a perfect location for stargazing, offered guests an unforgettable opportunity to observe the beauty of star filled skies, with planets like Venus, Jupiter, and Mars shining brightly.
(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)
