A rare sighting of a caracal was observed along Carlos Road. The animal was briefly seen and photographed before vanishing into the surrounding scrub.
Tau Pan has continued to have strong lion activity. The resident Tau Pan Pride, which consists of one male and six females, were frequently spotted in and around the camp. Several successful kills were recorded near the lodge. A second pride has become increasingly visible in the Passage Valley region. This group, led by three dominant males, appeared to be establishing territorial control in the area, confirming the presence of at least two distinct prides within the concession.
Leopard sightings were less frequent this month, but each were significant. A large male leopard was observed feeding on a gemsbok carcass along Carlos Road during the first week. He stayed with the carcass for about three days before moving on. A female leopard was spotted near Phukwi Pan; she displayed signs of injury but remained mobile.
A solitary male cheetah was frequently observed in the Mawelewele area. Although no hunts were observed, the individual appeared relaxed and in good condition, often seeking shade during the day.
A brown hyena was briefly spotted near the airstrip. Although the individual was skittish, numerous tracks were recorded throughout the area, especially around pans and water points, indicating active movement and a healthy presence in the region.
Clear skies and a lively Landscape
April brought favourable conditions to the Central Kalahari. The daily weather was pleasant, characterised by clear skies, warm afternoons, and cooler mornings. Recent rains transformed the desert, bringing life to the landscape: grasses grew tall, wildflowers bloomed across the pans, and the park acquired a vibrant green hue. This transformation created picturesque vistas and improved game visibility.
Regular sightings included gemsbok, springbok, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, giraffe, kudu, steenbok, duiker, ostrich, and plains zebra. Black-backed jackals and Cape foxes were observed daily, and ground squirrels were active throughout the pans.
The conditions after the rain caused a significant rise in reptile and insect activity. Leopard tortoises were often seen crossing roads and pans. Insects observed included Toktokkie beetles, blister beetles, ground beetles, jewel beetles, and a wide variety of butterflies. Additionally, a black mamba was seen crossing the path near the central pan area.
Small mammals were frequently seen, particularly yellow and slender mongooses active near termite mounds. Ground squirrels were common, often basking in the early morning sun.
Greenery and Abundant birdlife
With water still remaining in some pans, birdlife remained abundant. Migratory and wetland-associated species included marabou storks, Abdim’s storks, black-crowned night herons, and various egrets and herons. Resident raptors such as pale chanting goshawks and bateleurs were frequently observed, along with larks, sandgrouse, and helmeted guinea fowl.
Walking safaris proved especially rewarding this month. The lush green foliage made it easier to identify and discuss the traditional uses of desert plants, including those with medicinal properties. Guests gained valuable insights into local ecology and the knowledge systems of the San Bushmen.
