Spring brings the dusty plains alive with movement. From enticing animal tracks to unusual bird behaviours, we’ve noticed the shift in season. As we await the summer rains, our trackers rely on their innate knowledge and deep connection to the land. Tracking animals in the bush is more than a skill, it’s a deeply-rooted understanding, passed down and honoured over generations. Every subtle sign left by nature reveals a story.
Victor Tracks to Victory
Victor, our knowledgeable tracker, demonstrated his expertise when we came across three sets of cheetah prints. He set out on foot, reading the story left behind by these elusive cats, leading us through thick vegetation. Contrary to popular belief, cheetahs don’t always live on the open plains, they often find shelter in woodlands and denser bush. Tracking cheetahs requires immense skill, as they are highly sensitive and easily startled by sudden movement or noise. Victor’s vast experience allowed him to locate the cheetahs in just a few minutes. It was an extraordinary sighting, three cheetahs in one scene, a moment we could have missed without Victor’s read on the story of nature.
Abundance of wildlife
This season is teeming with a rich variety of species, from flourishing flora to diverse fauna. The wildlife is constantly on the move, searching for food and returning to dams and rivers for hydration. This year, we’ve seen an abundance of buffalo and elephants, with herds of over 1,000 buffaloes roaming the land. Surprisingly, we’ve had more elephants than impalas, making this an exciting time for safari-goers.
As always, the migratory birds have returned, adding vibrant colours and energy to the trees. Species like the Red-chested Cuckoo, Klaas’s Cuckoo, Carmine Bee-eater, and Purple Roller have been spotted in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, marking the change to a warmer season. With many of our smaller waterholes nearly dry as we await rain, waterbirds like Marabou and Saddle-billed storks have had ample opportunities to hunt fish, platannas, and freshwater shrimp.
One of our most memorable sightings this season was a tawny eagle feeding on a steenbok lamb, unusual behaviour, as these eagles typically scavenge on large carcasses alongside vultures and other birds of prey.
Big game sightings have increased significantly, with zebras, giraffes, kudus, lions, leopards, and wild dogs all making regular appearances. Now, with cheetahs in the mix, our safari experience feels complete. We are also fortunate to have an active hyena den with pups, giving guests the chance to witness these scavenger nurture their young.
The clear night skies
The star-gazing has been phenomenal during our evening drives. Clear skies have revealed constellations such as Sagittarius, Scorpio, the Southern Cross, Leo, Corona Australis, and more. The Milky Way has been dazzlingly bright, and the Coalsack Nebula has been easy to spot. Astronomy has become one of the highlights of our after-dark safari experiences.
Seasonal Changes on the Horizon
Rain is expected in the next two months, which will bring new life to the bush. The first sprouting grasses and leaves will trigger the birth of impala young, as pregnant females rely on these green pastures to sustain themselves. Interestingly, impalas can delay giving birth if food is scarce, ensuring their young have the best chance of survival. We anticipate insects emerging from hibernation, reptiles like tortoises and frogs appearing in search of food and water, and the first rains igniting life, setting the food chain in motion as summer begins.
Water is vital to the survival of every species. Without it, rivers wouldn’t sustain the fish and other aquatic life that depend on them. As rainwater begins to flow, it carries fresh organic material into the rivers, supporting fish migrations and creating food opportunities for other animals. The plant life depends on water to thrive, whether it comes from moisture in the air, like dew, or from the damp soil. Water is always the key factor that determines a plant’s survival and growth.
We’re expecting flowers to bloom, attracting bees and nectar-eating birds, which play a crucial role in plant pollination. After a harsh winter, many herbivores have lost weight, but we anticipate they will regain their condition once the vegetation is replenished.
With spring’s arrival, nature is ready to bloom, inviting you to explore its beauty and create cherished memories.
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