We had sightings of five different prides in the area throughout the month. These included a pride of seven lions, a pride of nine, a pride of five, a coalition of four males, and an additional group of two sub-adult males.
One morning, the Pom Pom pride of nine was tracked while actively hunting. The pride successfully brought down a zebra, and the sighting lasted for over three hours. During this time, a group of hyenas arrived and attempted to approach the kill, but the lions were able to defend their meal.
Territorial disputes were frequent throughout the month, with multiple encounters and vocal exchanges recorded between the different lion groups.
Solitary Hunters and Opportunistic Scavengers
Leopard sightings were strong throughout the month. A notable sighting occurred in the Zippa area, where a female leopard, her cub, and an adult male were seen together feeding on a red lechwe. The kill was made by the female. Several females in the area showed signs of having mated, and more cubs were expected in the coming weeks.
Cheetah activity was relatively low, likely due to increased competition and pressure from lions, leopards, and hyenas. However, we did observe a female accompanied by three sub-adult cubs and a solitary male feeding on an impala carcass.
Spotted hyenas were regularly observed around the camp, particularly during early mornings near the breakfast area and at night near the waterhole in front of camp. Individuals were also seen passing through camp at night en route to other parts of the concession.
During night drives, hyenas were often spotted moving through the area, likely in search of carrion. On occasion, they were seen following wild dogs in an attempt to scavenge from a successful hunt.
Healthy herds and High waters
There was a noticeable increase in general game activity across the area. Common sightings included wildebeest, zebra, impala, and red lechwe. All herds appeared healthy, and the distribution was widespread across the floodplains and open areas. Crocodiles were regularly seen at the waterhole in front of camp, as well as during game drives and mokoro excursions.
With floodwaters having reached the Pom Pom area, waterbird numbers increased significantly. Notable sightings included large flocks of African openbills and wattled cranes—species that are more commonly observed in small groups. Convocations of fish eagles, marabou storks, and sightings of Pel’s fishing owl and white-breasted cormorant (a rarely recorded species) were also noted.
