Even with winter now in full swing and with that taking its toll on the bush, the sightings have been nothing short of spectacular. The change in the environment has also brought a change in the behaviour of certain animals. This allowed us to have a numerous number of unusual hippo sightings out of the water in the daylight as they try to for fill their dietary requirements with the diminishing food sources available. Another rarity includes some sightings of the elusive and ferocious honey badger, which is always a favourite amongst guests and rangers.

Leopard activity has been high with the more shy females Lisbon and White Dam being spotted and being watched making a couple of failed hunting attempts as they don’t only have to provide for themselves. We also had a glimpse of Lisbon’s cub. Little Bush female was also found vocalising in Nottins’ territory, which makes us wonder if she is expanding her range to make space for her almost independent cub. Maxabeni was found on an almost finished bushbuck kill and then also as he embarked on one of his boundary patrols.

There was definitely no shortage on the big cat front and we enjoyed plenty of exceptional lion sightings. The three Sparta sub-adult males paid us a visit and led us through the darkness towards a big herd of buffalo where they failed to bring one down. The two Fourways males were found on a buffalo kill which we assume was killed by the six Southern Pride females as there were signs of them in the same area. Guests were also entertained as the females where chased by a big elephant bull at a nearby waterhole.

A male cheetah made an appearance to the delight of guests as everyone always loves to see the fastest land mammal. He provided us with some amazing photographic opportunities once again.

As another week here at Sabi Sabi comes to an end one can only wonder and lick our lips for what the next week has in store for us.