Deteema Springs Camp Wildlife Stories August 2023
August is the ultimate wind whisperer, beckoning dramatic change of the seasons and ushering the much-anticipated dry spell. All of us at Deteema Springs Camp say goodbye to freezing winter and embrace the warmth with open arms. It's goodbye to the many layers of clothes and welcome back to shorts and shirts all day long.
Morning Playtime
The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon painting the sky with hues of pink and gold. Cups of coffee in hand getting ready for our drive when the silence was broken by the roars of lions reverberating in the air. A short drive to the end of camp and we were greeted by the site of cubs frolicking playfully with the females who were trying to bask in the morning light.
Buffalo Stampede
First, we noticed the tracks and dung, which immediately piqued our curiosity. As we ventured further, a distinct scent filled the air, intensifying our anticipation. The sound of their presence grew louder, echoing in our ears. Our hearts raced, and our mouths became dry with excitement, wondering what awaited us around the next corner. And then, there they were, right before our eyes.
A magnificent herd of over 500 buffaloes, their gaze fixed upon us as we approached. Suddenly, a cloud of dust erupted into the air, triggered by the thunderous stampede initiated by one of them. We were engulfed in the swirling particles, but every single second of it was an exhilarating experience that left us breathless and covered in a layer of dust.
Nature Untamed
When a buffalo died in front of our camp, the anticipation was palpable, as we knew that our lion pride would soon spring into action. What an awe-inspiring sight it was, nature's very own theatre with 25 lions and their cubs feeding at once.
You could feel their power as you heard the bone-crunching sounds resonating in your ears, almost as if to echo their dominance. The tearing of flesh revealed their strength, nature untamed at its finest, and we found ourselves in the front row of this magnificent show.
A Quartet of Cheetah
During a thrilling morning drive at Big Tom's near the front gate, an incredible sight awaited our guests. Not just one or two, but a magnificent quartet of cheetahs! We were captivated as we watched these sleek speed machines, lounging there with an air of tranquillity. It was an exhilarating experience to witness them, considering that their population has significantly dwindled over the past few years.
Feeding Frenzy
Starting the day with lions right in front of camp is always an awe-inspiring experience. But let me tell you, witnessing a successful hunt unfold before our eyes was nothing short of magical! The tranquillity of the morning was abruptly shattered as a pride of lions sprinted across the boma-area, relentlessly pursuing an unfortunate female impala.
With no chance of escape, she was swiftly pounced upon, devoured, and completely consumed within a matter of minutes. But these 20 mighty lions were not satisfied with just one meal. Oh no, they hungered for more! And more they received, as a kudu unknowingly stumbled upon the same tragic fate. The excitement in the air was palpable as we watched these majestic predators claim their rightful place at the top of the food chain.
As we move closer to summer we look forward to even more thrilling sightings and wonder what nature has in store for us.
Until next time,
Mac
Deteema Springs
