Verney’s Camp Wildlife Stories February 2025
It did not rain as much as it usually does in February at Verney’s Camp. The most we received was 20mm on a single day. Luckily for the wildlife, the rainfall in the previous months brought a liveliness to the park. The landscape is covered in lush green vegetation, and the watering holes are full and welcoming wildlife daily.
The Wild is Full of Surprises
During an afternoon game drive, we stopped to look at a Bateleur eagle perched on a dead acacia tree. We took our time looking at the beautiful red-faced bird. Something caught our attention as we were getting ready to leave. A male lion had been spotted camouflaged behind some tall grass just 30 metres away.
We were all ecstatic to see him, and as previous experience taught us: If there is one lion, there could be more. We scanned the area carefully and spotted a lioness nearby.
After an hour of watching the pair, they got up from their hidden spots and moved towards a waterhole. This was our opportunity to get some great photographs of the pair.
Laying In Wait
When the vegetation is tall and green, spotting wildlife can be more difficult - not only for us but also for animals that rely on their line of sight to detect predators.
A pack of African wild dogs seemed aware of this as they waited for prey to come to a watering hole near camp, just metres from our tents.
The Lion’s Share
During an afternoon game drive, we stopped at a waterhole and scanned the area for activity. Our guides are well-versed in the cues of the wild. A combination of this, and perfect timing, often rewards those who are patient.
After a while of watching the birds and other smaller animals drinking from the pan, we could feel a change in the air. Just then, a cloud of dust followed a fully-grown African buffalo as he ran from a male lion.
It is common for us to see a pride of lions enjoying the fruits of their labours, but watching a lion take down a fully-grown African buffalo is another thing entirely. The lion was ecstatic over his kill, enjoying every bit with an audience of vultures nearby, waiting for the right moment to swoop in and feast on the leftovers.
February at Verney’s was an electric month. We can’t wait to see what next month has in store.
Until next time,
Stanley
Verney’s Camp
