New Year's Eve Virtual Safari #199 – Londolozi Blog

On this captivating New Year’s Eve, the crackling energy in the air isn’t just from the anticipation of bidding farewell to the old year; it was the electrifying news echoing over the radio from a game drive that unfolded not so long ago. A leopard sighting is always a thrill, and tonight’s Virtual Safari is no exception.

It all began with Matt’s voice crackling through the radio, excitement lacing his words as he announced the discovery of not one, but four leopards! We swiftly navigated through the rugged terrain to witness an extraordinary spectacle unfold before us. The Nkuwa Female, a seasoned huntress, had successfully captured an impala. Joining her in this feast were her two rapidly maturing male cubs.

Amidst the dining scene, the enigmatic Senegal Bush Male, presumed patriarch of the young duo, was likely conducting a territorial patrol. The scent of a fresh kill tantalized his senses, guiding him to the feast. Imagining the leopard family gathered around the carcass, sharing the spoils, painted a vivid picture in my mind. However, as our eager eyes met the scene, we found two hyenas feasting on the remains of the impala scattered below the tree, a chaotic aftermath likely a result of the inexperience of one of the mischievous cubs. The leopards gracefully yielded to the scavengers but the youngsters, fueled by a mix of curiosity and hunger, scaled the trees, hoping to find any overlooked scraps.

The spectacle continued as the mother and her cubs eventually descended, settling on the river sand. Strangely familiar, it was the exact spot where we once witnessed the Nhlanguleni Female tenderly carrying her cub to a new den. Nature, it seemed, had a way of intertwining stories, creating echoes of life and survival in the heart of the wilderness.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sprawling landscape, we marvelled at the beauty of the moment.

Enjoy this Virtual Safari…

One of two sisters born to the Nhlanguleni Female, both of whom made it to independence, the first intact litter to do so in 7 years.

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