With the arrival of the first rains there is a definite transformation in the landscape here at Sabi Sabi. Recent burns in certain areas have resulted in lush grass sprouting from the once parched land, attracting not just herds of grazers and mixed feeders, but also the predators looking to scavenge on any victims.

Previous editions of A Week in the Bush would have mentioned many times about the Fourways males mating with the Southern Pride. Well the past week has not been any different. The larger male of the Fourways males has been mating for a few days with one of the Southern Pride females. Although much has not changed on that front, guides were kept guessing whenever the Southern Pride was spotted about the number of females that were together, where during some days only 4 or 5 were spotted and the during some days only 3 were found with another spotted a distance away. One female who we suspect is from the Southern Pride was also found in the Sabie River for two days in a row, far from the other females. Besides the mating and separation of the Southern Pride, the most gripping news was when the Fourways males were found injured. The injuries sustained do not seem life threatening and they will certainly make a recovery.

The two Sparta males were still hanging around on our property for the early parts of the week. They are definitely growing more confident as the days pass and we hope to see more of them during the weeks to come.

Leopard activity during the past week was interesting in that Mahlathini made an appearance in the heart of Maxabeni’s territory. His stay was short but it was good to see him.

Maxabeni was found a few times, doing his usual thing, scent marking heavily throughout his massive territory.

Warthog Wallow killed an impala earlier during the week and had not moved for 4 days, which provided constant sightings of her. Maxabeni was also seen at the kill site on day 4. Interestingly after a few hours after leaving her at the kill site, she was found quite a distance away on a kudu kill that was killed by hyenas.

Nottins also made a brief appearance during the week and she is still looking healthy.

The gentle giants have been a bit scarce of late and a few breeding herds and bachelors were found here and there. Hopefully the next week will bring change in this regard.

Two different herds of buffalo were moving through the reserve during the past week. One up in our Northern property and one in the Southern property. It’s always a great experience to sit amongst these beasts and be right in the middle of them as they move along and feed around the vehicles.

After making appearances on a near daily basis for the previous few weeks, the Toulon Pack were spotted only a few times during the past week, and once again the ever active youngsters provided ample entertainment.

Whilst on a transfer, Little Bush Camp ranger, Ross, spotted a male cheetah. Once radioed in, guides quickly gathered their guests and went out to see this very special animal. The cheetah attempted to hunt several different herds of impala before giving up and deciding to rest.

On the 22^nd of September we celebrated World Rhino Day where throughout the World people were showing their support for rhino conservation. During this day all five species are celebrated: the White, Black, Greater One-horned, Sumatran and Javan Rhinos. Here at Sabi Sabi guests can spot two of the five species, the White Rhino and the elusive Black Rhino.

Let us hope that one day generations to come will be able to experience the beauty of Africa and its amazing wildlife, where not only the rhinos, but also the many other animals that are being decimated by human greed can roam freely without living in danger.