Verney's Camp Wildlife Stories May 2026
Weather Report
While the dry season was fast approaching, winter had arrived at Verney’s Camp. Mornings and nights were cold, averaging between 8ºC and 18ºC, while midday and afternoon temperatures remained hot. Daytime temperatures will gradually drop in June and July, and the rain will eventually cease, thinning the surrounding vegetation and decreasing the amount of water sources in the region.
Until then, May saw reptiles begin to hibernate, antelope species prepare for the upcoming breeding season, trees lose some of their leaves, and plants begin to go dormant.
Cheese Boys
We were ecstatic to see the legendary male cheetah coalition affectionately dubbed “Cheese Boys” resting beside a towering termite mound in the open plains. One bother lay stretched out in the shade while the other claimed the peak of the mound, scanning the horizon for potential prey. The atmosphere was electric as we watched the duo command the landscape with their presence, charisma, and elegance. Each tail flick and ear twitch had us holding our breath. This was truly a magnificent sight.
Not So Fast
After a full day of safari viewing, where we saw cheetahs, lions, hyenas, and African wild Dogs, we were ready to head back home to Verney’s Camp. We weren’t expecting to see more predators on our way back, but little did we know that on the side of our vehicle, hidden in some tall grass, were two female leopards poking their heads out.
Once they realised it was safe, the two leopardesses started to cross the road. We followed them for about 50 metres before they ducked into the bushes, yet another reason to stay vigilant while on safari.
Camouflage
Cheetahs are the smallest big cats around, in terms of both size and weight. So, whenever a larger predator approaches them, they have no choice but to flee.
On this occasion, we saw a pair of cheetahs drinking from a water source when lions appeared out of the tall grass. They were coming to drink from the pan as well, but that didn’t stop the cheetahs from immediately putting up their guard. To their credit, they stood their ground, waiting to see if an attack was incoming, but it never did. Thanks to their camouflage, the lions couldn’t see them and quenched their thirst without noticing them.
Follow The Tracks
Viewing predators is one of the most surreal experiences on earth, but what makes it even better is when you track those predators down over multiple kilometres yourself. This is what we did towards the end of May when we put our guides’ expert tracking abilities to the test. First, we spotted fresh lion tracks while on a game drive. After that, we followed the tracks left in the sand and even small branches broken off bushes.
Our anticipation grew with every kilometre, and eventually, our persistence paid off. We discovered two magnificent lionesses resting on a small but elevated grassy hill. We immediately fell silent, captivated by the lioness's gaze, and wondering what they saw every time they raised their heads off the ground.
The thrill of tracking these apex predators made the viewing experience that much more incredible.
Hwange National Park had spectacular wildlife sightings this May. Watch this space for more Wildlife Stories from Veryney’s Camp.
Until next time,
Yvonne, Trust, Connor
Verney’s Camp
