Lion sightings were consistent throughout the month. The Tau Pan pride was observed on most days, particularly near the camp and at the waterhole. Several sightings involved intruding lions from neighboring prides, including two sub-adult lions (one male and one female) from the Passage Pride and a single sub-adult male from the San Pan Pride. In addition, three females were seen moving through Passage Valley.
A notable and rather sad development was the apparent loss of cubs belonging to three Tau Pan lionesses. Previously, these females were observed with a total of eight cubs; however, none have been sighted since the beginning of the month. It is suspected that the cubs may have been killed by intruding males or an older male that had been seen trailing the pride. Shortly after, mating activity resumed, with two of the females observed mating.
During the month, there were sightings of three individual leopards. One leopard was observed around Tau Pan, while two others were seen near the waterhole. Additionally, spoor was noted in areas such as Letiahau and San Pan, suggesting broader movement across the reserve.
A male cheetah was spotted near Tau Pan attempting to hunt springbok, but it was unsuccessful. Tracks were observed in several locations, but no further visual sightings were reported.
There was one confirmed sighting of a brown hyena drinking from the waterhole early in the morning. No other hyenas were recorded, although their presence is likely based on tracks and vocalizations.
Golden Grasses and Desert Giants
Tau Pan continued to deliver reliable sightings of desert-adapted species. Regular observations included oryx, springbok, red hartebeest, kudu, giraffe, steenbok, common duiker, wildebeest, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, and Cape fox.
The region’s landscape remained dominated by bush and grass savannah. Umbrella thorn acacia was the prevailing tree species, with river thorn acacia noted to be blooming. Grasses displayed a golden hue, offering favourable light for photography, particularly during early morning and late afternoon. Sand dunes around the area provided scenic vantage points for sunsets and offered insight into the geological formation of the Kalahari.
Reptile sightings included rock monitors, water monitors, puff adders, mole snakes, cape cobras, and black mambas. Insects observed included giant jewel beetles, dung beetles, wheeling bugs, grasshoppers, African monarch butterflies and rhinocerous beetles. Pods of caterpillars were also seen moving across damp areas.
Regular sightings of yellow and slender mongooses were recorded, along with ground squirrels. Other small mammal activity included occasional views of genets and African wild cats during the cooler hours.
Wings, wisdom and night skies
Birding was prolific throughout August. Kori bustards were frequently encountered across open plains. Secretary birds, pale chanting goshawks, and tawny eagles were recorded regularly. Sandgrouse and doves were seen congregating at the waterhole in the mornings. Lanner falcons were observed hunting small birds around the waterhole. Honeyguides were occasionally followed by goshawks in typical foraging behaviour. Vultures were also present in moderate numbers.
Guided San bushman walks remained an integral activity this month, with good opportunities to discuss local plant usage and traditional survival methods. Guests learnt how various plants were used for setting traps, building materials, and sourcing water through tubers and melons. Tracking and interpretation of signs added educational value to the walks.
Clear skies offered excellent conditions for stargazing. Visible constellations included the Southern Cross, Scorpius, Virgo, and Libra. The Milky Way was prominent during the darker phases of the moon and easily observed from the open pans.
