Gomoti Plains Wildlife Stories September 2024
The month of September started with mild temperatures that have been steadily increasing as we approach summer. The water that arrived in late August is diminishing and will dry out completely by mid-October. We are waiting patiently for the summer rains to bring some relief while enjoying the warm temperatures.
We celebrated Independence Day in Botswana by taking our guests ‘out’ for dinner. Finding the perfect location away from camp, dinner was served in the bush, under the stars.
King Makes a Kill
In a matter of days, we watched hunt after hunt.
In a bittersweet and quintessentially wild encounter with lions, the Survivor pride took down three buffalo.
Thanks to our amazing guides, we were lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time and able to watch a male lion hunting from beginning to end. From stalking the buffalo to the explosive chase, the encounter had a lethal ending. We generally see more lionesses on the hunt so it was special to watch a male lion take his turn.
Kings and Queens in Training
We were privileged to witness a stand-off between two females, six cubs and about 1000 Cape buffalo.
The sub-adult lions made a valiant attempt at a hunt. With still so much to learn, the lions were vastly outnumbered and even with the two females, the lions were unsuccessful this time.
Welcoming Committee
A pack of 37 wild dogs, including pups, were playfully calling and interacting with each other. Welcoming guests at the airstrip as they arrived, guests were delighted to witness such a special sighting. This set the scene for an incredible time at Gomoti with many more amazing sightings.
Welcoming Committee
A pack of 37 wild dogs, including pups, were playfully calling and interacting with each other. Welcoming guests at the airstrip as they arrived, guests were delighted to witness such a special sighting. This set the scene for an incredible time at Gomoti with many more amazing sightings.
After Dark
After a successful hunt, three members of the Survivor Pride took turns feeding on the zebra and drinking from a nearby waterhole.
When darkness fell the hyenas and jackals started calling, waiting close by for a moment to take a piece of the kill for themselves. A distinct commotion broke through the darkness as the lions roared their warnings against the snickering of the hyenas and the howling of the jackals.
It was a great month for the lions at Gomoti Plains. Between the amazing sightings and unfortunate outcomes for the buffalo and zebra, guests also witnessed a sighting of a newborn elephant. A truly memorable month, what will next month bring?
Until next time,
Annamie
Gomoti Plains
