Gomoti Plains Wildlife Stories April 2024
Six of the Northern Pride's cubs have been spotted recently around Gomoti Plains after their mother left them in a safe spot to go hunting. They are old enough to be reintroduced back into the pride and we look forward to seeing them grow up, playing and learning as they grow.
Feasting
A cheetah has been seen frequently in the area hunting and has had great success. Cheetahs have a hunting success rate of 40 - 50% so to have taken down an impala and warthog in front of camp recently was amazing to watch.
Tug-of-War
A massive herd of buffalo has been moving around the region for the last two months, often daring to cross the Gomoti River.
On one such occasion, a lurking crocodile caught a young and slow member of the buffalo herd. Hearing the calls, one of the Johnny Walker lion brothers was quick to the scene where a tug-of-war ensued.
Reigning Defender
A male leopard has been calling out late at night to defend his territory.
Male leopards have several ways to mark their territory. A scent from interdigital glands in the paws is released when scratching trees. Other scent-releasing glands can be found in the cheeks or behind their heads and we often see a leopard rubbing its head on various landmarks.
This all sends the message that a dominant male is present.
With such excitement in camp, we forgot about the colder mornings and evenings. Winter is near and as the veld becomes drier, we look forward to some amazing sightings.
Until next time,
Ponche
Gomoti Plains
