A pack of sixteen African wild dogs was seen over two consecutive days near Makgowa Pan and Tau Pan. The pack successfully hunted and killed several springbok, providing excellent viewing and behaviour observation opportunities.
The Tau Pan pride, which consists of one dominant male and six lionesses, remained active throughout the month. The pride was frequently sighted near the camp and made several successful kills. At least three gemsbok were hunted around Tau Pan and near the main waterhole. Additionally, a coalition of three male lions was observed in the Passage Valley area; however, these males did not interact with the core pride.
During a morning game drive, a male leopard was tracked and followed along Mawelewele Road, stalking a herd of springbok. Despite its strategic positioning, the hunt was unsuccessful. Later, another male leopard was seen to the south of Tau Pan, where it successfully caught and killed a bat-eared fox. Both sightings involved solitary males and showcased the stealth and patience characteristic of this species.
A solitary male cheetah was seen roaming the Passage Valley area. The animal was shy and kept its distance, but allowed brief photographic opportunities.
Game viewing around Tau Pan was very productive throughout February. Many species were observed, including springbok, red hartebeest, wildebeest, kudu, steenbok, common duiker, black-backed jackals, and bat-eared foxes. The availability of water and fresh grazing contributed to high activity levels across the pans and the surrounding grasslands.
Ground squirrels were seen regularly, often foraging in groups near burrow systems. Yellow and slender mongooses were also active, typically observed during the day as they searched for prey and patrolled their territories.
Rainfall encouraged increased activity from various reptiles and insects. Sightings included leopard tortoises, monitor lizards, geckos, and numerous species of beetles. Among them were blister beetles and whirligig beetles. Other arthropods observed included millipedes, centipedes, and a diversity of butterflies such as African migrants, blue pansies, and brown-veined whites.
The birding was excellent, with the arrival of intra-African migrants. Several species of cuckoos were present, as well as storks, including marabou and Abdim’s storks. Egrets were commonly found around water sources. Resident species such as helmeted guineafowl, hornbills, and various larks remained active. The pans attracted waterbirds, while raptors were frequently observed hunting over open grassland.
Guests participated in guided bush walks led by San trackers. These walks offered insights into traditional survival techniques and ecological knowledge, with an emphasis on spoor identification, edible plants, and tracking.
Star gazing remained a highlight during clear evenings. Constellations visible included the Southern Cross (Crux), Orion, Taurus, and Scorpius. Planets such as Venus, Jupiter, and Mars were also observed. Tau Pan’s elevation and lack of light pollution offered ideal viewing conditions.
