Au-GUST is the month of strong winds and dust!
It became abundantly clear on game drives as to why this month is called Au-GUST. Strong winds battered the game reserve on many occasions. Grasses resembled ocean waves, birds experienced new speed records and many mammals hunkered down to avoid exerting extra energy to remain standing in the blustery conditions. However, once the dust settled, we could sit back and appreciate the excellent sightings August had to offer.
Some quick updates on our new additions to the reserve. We had a few wonderful moments with the two female cheetahs that were released at the end of June. Both have been hunting successfully and navigating their way around the reserve and its other carnivorous characters. They have two full months ‘under their belts’ and seem to be settling in nicely. The elephant calf, which is only about a month old, has had a busy month learning the topography of Nambiti while the matriarch led the herd from north to south and back a few times in August. We caught up with the newcomer close to Umzolozolo Lodge recently and its little legs were looking a bit wobbly after a long journey.
Something that has been a real feature this month is the frequency and quality of Grey (Common) Duiker sightings. These solitary foragers are usually quite skittish and duck into the thickets at the slightest bit of attention. In many areas, the thickets have thinned out and this feature has presented us with numerous moments where we can observe and share about these shy antelope.
August has been a fantastic month for birding. Nine Blue Cranes were spotted on the western plains in a burnt patch under the power lines, Lanner Falcons have selected their nesting sites and have been seen interacting with each other in the surrounding valleys, male Long-tailed Widowbirds are beginning to grow their breeding plumage, and Marsh Owls have been seen flying low above the tall grasses. Close to the lodge, we have spotted Chinspot Batis’ displaying, and Chestnut-vented Warbler are more vocal.
Over the past few weeks, there have been some conservation and reserve management events involving helicopters and friends of Nambiti. With a few more Rhinos needing to be dehorned and various game numbers needing to be managed, we have hosted ecologists, conservationists, veterinarians and students from all around the world. It has made special moments with Square-lipped or Hook-lipped rhinos even more cherished.
Down at Hoopoe Dam, we hosted our first bush braai under the stars. Guests were seated around a roaring fire while the chefs prepared a traditional South African braai. The delicious smells drifted between guests as drinks flowed and stories were shared. It was a beautiful night at a wonderful venue with tasty food and excellent company.
With Spring just around the corner, game drive times have changed and the weather is warming up throughout the day. Mornings are still a little chilly but the evenings are magical.
Hope to see you soon!
Head Guide Noleen Turner