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Leopard Update

With the start of 2016 there has been quite a bit happening with the Leopards at Leopard Hills.

 

 

 

New Female Leopard

There is a new face within our traversing area, she is a young female leopard of a couple of years old, as soon as we have some more information on her we will be sure to update you.

 

New Female tree New Female 2

 

Boulders Female

Boulders female has also been seen with two young Cubs of about 4 weeks old, hopefully they will grow up to be wonderful leopards with many special sightings.

 

Boulders CubsBoulders Female by Hugo Breed

Thlangisa Female

Thlangisa female has given birth to another litter consisting of 3 tiny cubs, they are now about 8-10weeks old and doing very well. We look forward to following them and update you on how they are doing.

Thlangisa and cub Thlangisa CubsThlangisa Images by Hugo Breed

Best Wishes for 2016!

Torchwood’s Tug-of-War….

As guides we often get the question if we don’t get bored with going on game drive pretty much every day of our lives. The answer is no, we don’t. Even though we see the a lot of the same animals on a regular basis, we see them doing something different, get to witness different behaviour and interactions between different species. We also see them grow up and develop their own personalities.

But yesterday was one of those mornings I will not easily forget. It started out slow, we spent some time at a Hyena den and watched the adults interact with each other. We patiently waited at the entrance to the den, to be rewarded with a very young Hyena pup showing itself to us.

After this we headed for a relaxing coffee and muffin break with some Hippos.

We then set of again on the lookout for more animals before returning to the lodge. Suddenly one of the guests spots a puff of dust behind us. We started to reverse to investigate and we realized it was a Leopard(Torchwood) that had just caught a Warthog. We rushed over and positioned ourselves to watch nature at its rawest unfold in front of us. While Torchwood was still strangling this Warthog a Hyena came out of nowhere and approached him from behind. Torchwood didn’t flinch and just kept his grip on the Warthog’s throat.

The Hyena saw its opportunity and started to bite into the Warthog. This continued for a while, with the Warthog still trying to escape and the Hyena feeding on its hind quarters. Eventually Torchwood managed to suffocate the Warthog and then proceeded to slap the Hyena and try and chase it away. A tug of war ensued between the two.

Eventually the Hyena ripped a leg off of the Warthog and moved off to the side, while Torchwood, who was now exhausted, started to feed as well. He then started looking for a tree to hoist the kill and dragged the carcass all the way through a drainage line and up a Tamboti tree.

DHB_0205DHB_0213

 

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DHB_0289 DHB_0271

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

None of us could really believe that we were so fortunate to witness this.

So the answer remains no, we do not get bored. There will always be something exciting happening. Especially at Leopard Hills.

Written by Hugo Breed

The “New Look” Leopard Hills.

I am very pleased to announce and introduce to you, the new look and feel of Leopard Hills.

Following the re-vamp we conducted on all the Suites over the last couple of years, we took the decision at the beginning of this year to carry on the new look and theme through to the Library, Curio Shop, Reception and dining room bar areas.

I sincerely hope you like it as much as we do!!

We look forward to welcoming you back and showing you around.

Lounge, Dining Room and Bar Area

LH Bar Lounge Dining 9

LH Bar Lounge Dining 3LH Bar Lounge Dining 5LH Bar Lounge Dining 8Reception/Curio Shop

LH Curio Shop 1LH Reception 2LH Reception 1Library

LH Library 1 LH Library 2 LH Library 3 LH Library 4 LH Library 5 LH Library 6 LH Library 7 LH Library 8

Thirsty travelers stop by to quench their thirst at suite 5

During the morning Duncan had the privilege of having this amazing sighting of three Elephant bulls from the inside of suite 5.

[KGVID width=”640″ height=”427″]https://www.leopardhills.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/DuncanElephantsroom51.flv[/KGVID]

First Quarter 2015 Ranger’s Report

The first quarter of 2015 has gone by in a flash and we can’t believe autumn is already looming around the corner.  Leaves on trees have already begun to change to a beautiful orange, red and yellow colour. In the Western Sector we are waiting in anticipation to see if we will get some very much needed rains before winter takes over. Sightings of the first three months have truly been first-rate in all aspects. DHB_3752 (800x315)

Starting with the Lions, we have a look at the mighty Majingilane coalition. These four brothers have surely shown us they are a force to be reckoned with by occupying such a big territory in the Sabi Sands. Over the three months at least one or two of them spent most of their time in our Sector. They were seen mating with both the Othawa and Ximhungwe females, and also spending time with the Othawas on a couple of kills as well as over taking a kill from the Ximhungwes.

DHB_4378 (800x533) IS8A0039u IS8A0060 IS8A0064 IS8A0109 IS8A0154 DHB_2572 (800x533) DHB_2885 (800x757) DHB_2929 (800x423) DHB_3521 (800x485) DHB_4124 (800x690) DHB_4128 (800x453)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Othawa pride has been moving quite a bit with them being split up from each other for a while. One of the females spent a lot of time mating with some of the Majingilane males while one of the other females disappeared to give birth to three beautiful cubs. She has since introduced the cubs to the rest of the pride, their fathers and to us. They have already provided us with some special times, and we look forward to seeing them grow into magnificent Lions. The two surviving sub-adults have been wandering around by themselves, with the female joining up with the rest of pride over the last couple of days. The future of the young male is still unknown. DHB_4432 (800x573) IS8A0027t IS8A0040 IS8A0085 IS8A0178 IS8A0182 IS8A0340 DHB_2887 (800x507) DHB_3030 (800x689) DHB_3047 (800x608) DHB_3931 (800x467) DHB_4007 (800x522) DHB_4018 (800x389) DHB_4137 (800x305) DHB_4221 (508x800) DHB_4396 (800x404)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ximhungwe pride has been their usual selves and has been traveling a lot, and even moving distances during the midday heat. The two females have been alternating between mating with the males. The youngsters have still not been seen together with the coalition.

IS8A0103 IS8A0145s IS8A0377 DHB_2470 (800x506) DHB_2471 (800x522) DHB_2473 (800x490) DHB_3226 (800x500) DHB_3235 (800x702) DHB_3445 (800x431) IS8A0028 IS8A0036 IS8A0067

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have also been lucky enough to spend some time with the Manghene pride, fourteen Lions in total, from the east. We had the privilege to watch them hunting and even being chased around by a big herd of Buffalo. They did manage to kill a Buffalo, which provided us with some more incredible viewing.

DHB_3758 (800x431) DHB_3764 (800x361) DHB_3782 (800x533) DHB_3844 (800x408) DHB_3850 (800x530) DHB_3860 (800x503) DHB_3872 (800x367)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the Leopard front Dayone has come back in full force, regaining all of his territory, and in the process pushing Nyeleti back East. He provided us with outstanding sightings of him stalking prey, patrolling his territory and mating with the Dam 3 female.

DHB_2758 (800x533) DHB_2823 (800x589) DHB_2934 (800x476) DHB_3011 (612x800) DHB_3364 (800x614) DHB_3743 (800x491) DHB_3901 (800x397) DHB_4330 (800x378) IS8A0014f IS8A0018c IS8A0020u IS8A0021r IS8A0030k IS8A0035 IS8A0065x IS8A0084 IS8A0497 IS8A0507

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kashane also came into the West a couple of times, but not staying for a long time before he returned to the majority of his territory in the East.

DHB_2977 (800x440) DHB_2981 (800x796)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Dayone pushing Nyeleti out of his territory, we have had very few sightings of him over this period.

IS8A0018 IS8A0030 IS8A0069 IS8A0070 IS8A0196

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both Torchwood and Ravenscourt are still nomadic as they roam over parts of the Western Sector, trying to avoid the big boys. In a year or two they are going to become forces to be reckoned with.

Torchwood
Torchwood
Torchwood
Torchwood
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Torchwood
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Torchwood
Torchwood
Torchwood
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt
Ravenscourt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also had a visit from the old Camp Pan male from further East. It seems that he had been in a big fight and possibly been pushed out of his territory by another male.

DHB_4044 (800x470) DHB_4048 (800x471) DHB_4052 (800x395)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hlaba Nkunzi still spends most of her time in the East. We were however fortunate enough to see her newest cub a couple of times. We estimate it at about three to four months old. Hopefully she will spend some more time on our side.

DHB_3479 (800x517) DHB_3487 (800x680) DHB_3496 (800x458) DHB_3511 (593x800) IS8A0001 IS8A0052 IS8A0065

 

 

Thlangisa up in the North have started to move a lot more with her two beautiful daughters, who are now almost a year old. She is still providing for them as any good mother should. It is coming close to the point where they will start to make their own kills and then start moving away from mom to establish their own kingdom. DHB_2457 (800x510) DHB_2464 (800x574) DHB_3120 (800x468) DHB_3152 (800x468) DHB_3191 (800x490) DHB_3656 (800x419) DHB_3660 (533x800) DHB_3675 (800x505)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Xikavi wasn’t seen a lot this time around, and when she was seen it was in very thick vegetation.

IS8A0039 IS8A0055 IS8A0080

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The very elusive Dam 3 female was found a couple of times mating with Dayone. DHB_2801 (800x621) DHB_2808 (800x412) DHB_2829 (800x584)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The young Scotia always provides us with impressive sightings, be it where she is up a tree or stalking some Buffalo, to hiding from Buffalo until they almost step on her, it is always a treat to spend time with her.

DHB_2554 (800x533) DHB_2555 (800x555) DHB_3461 (800x533) DHB_3789 (800x533) DHB_3801 (800x406) IS8A0044 IS8A0065e IS8A0086 IS8A0095

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tasselberry also has a cub which is now around five months old. They are also not seen very often. IS8A0014

 

Sightings of the elegant male Cheetah have been spectacular with some good interaction between him and some Hyena on occasion, and him always giving us a show by either going up a termite mound or a fallen over tree to pose for the guests.

DHB_3298 (800x376) DHB_3300 (800x475) DHB_3356 (800x519) DHB_3606 (800x425) DHB_3895 (800x480) DHB_3950 (800x455) DHB_4269 (800x504) DHB_4277 (533x800) DHB_4285 (533x800) DHB_4455 (800x432) IMG_0074 IMG_0230 IS8A0026 IS8A0033 IS8A0050 IS8A0067d IS8A0102 IS8A0110s IS8A0224 IS8A0257

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Wild Dogs have been very scarce in this first quarter. We hope to see more of them in the upcoming months.

d DHB_2527 (800x394) DHB_2724 (800x512) DHB_3103 (526x800) DHB_3107 (800x451) IS8A0031s IS8A0087 IS8A0110 IS8A0118

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hyena sightings have really been first class. Over the last couple of months we discovered two den sites, with a couple of youngsters. At one of the dens we have seen two Hyena pups that cannot be older than two weeks as they are completely black.

DHB_3565 (793x800) DHB_3574 (800x530) DHB_3583 (800x419) DHB_3957 (800x436) DHB_3971 (800x335) IS8A0006 IS8A0008 IS8A0086

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Elephants are always a winner when it comes to the guests, especially the little babies. The rest of the bush has also been alive with activity from all the species providing us with superior game viewing opportunities.

DHB_4408 (800x617) IS8A0004 IS8A0010 IS8A0016 IS8A0025 IS8A0035s IS8A0090 IS8A0106 DHB_2453 (800x497) DHB_2731 (800x715) DHB_2741 (800x411) DHB_2754 (800x314) DHB_2781 (800x563) DHB_2837 (800x573) DHB_2930 (800x525) DHB_2948 (800x598) DHB_3018 (800x523) DHB_3075 (788x800) DHB_3246 (800x433) DHB_3380 (800x415) DHB_3982 (800x491) DHB_4319 (800x533)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Birding in the Western Sector is a treat as they are always around and busy doing something. Even when we can’t see them, we can at least hear there beautiful calls.

Bateleur
Bateleur
Cattle Egret
Cattle Egret
Marabou Storks
Marabou Storks
White Fronted Bee-eaters
White Fronted Bee-eaters
White Faced Ducks
White Faced Ducks
Purple Crested Turaco
Purple Crested Turaco
Bronze Winged Courser
Bronze Winged Courser
Lilac Breasted Roller
Lilac Breasted Roller
Black Bellied Bustard
Black Bellied Bustard
Village Weaver
Village Weaver
Southern Carmine Bee-Eater
Southern Carmine Bee-Eater
Woodlands Kingfisher
Woodlands Kingfisher
White Backed Vulture
White Backed Vulture
Burchell's Starling
Burchell’s Starling
Marshal Eagle & Fork tailed Drongo
Marshal Eagle & Fork tailed Drongo
Woolly Necked Stork
Woolly Necked Stork
Red Billed Oxpecker
Red Billed Oxpecker
Cape Turtle Dove
Cape Turtle Dove
Marabou Stork
Marabou Stork

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Video compilation for the first quarter. [KGVID width=”320″ height=”240″]https://www.leopardhills.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Firstquartercomp1.flv[/KGVID]

With this first quarter at an end we once again look forward to what the bush has to offer us and our very special guests. DHB_3701 (800x326) Written and compiled by Hugo Breed and Johan de la Rey

End of Year 2014 Ranger’s Report

With the rolling thunder building on the horizon there is excitement in the bush.

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It is hot and humid during the day with dust covering nearly everything. But there is a certain restlessness brewing in the bush as the clouds start to build and you can hear the distant thunder rolling closer, suddenly a flash of lightning and then that distinct smell of freshness as the first drops start washing the dust away….

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We had a good start to the rain season that got the bush to burst out of its seams with all the different shades of green. With the abundance of food it is also the time for all the baby’s to be born which in turn is also the time of easy food for all the predators, this is why in only a few days all the baby impala are born so that by pure numbers it will ensure that enough of the new generation will survive to take the place of the old and the weak.

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With the Lions we had an interesting time over the last couple of months, the Majingelane males are for sure here to stay and started to assert their dominance over both the Othawa and Ximhungwe prides. We had some amazing sighting of the four brothers ranging from buffalo kills to mating and also the full burst of all four roaring at top volume.

DHB_0547 DHB_0634 DHB_0643 DHB_1334 DHB_1596 DHB_1635 DHB_1684 DHB_1859 DHB_2189 DHB_2200 DHB_2218 DHB_2243 DHB_2318 DHB_0312 DHB_0308

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the Ximhungwe pride this year we have had some highs and lows with one of the adult females being found dead. The remaining two adult females are still cautious of the Majingelane males trying to avoid them to ensure the survival of the four remaining cubs, but we have seen the adult females mating with the males, so let’s hope the new generation of Ximhungwe cubs will be born shortly.

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The Othawa pride had real bad luck and out of the eight original cubs there is now only two left one sub adult male and one sub adult female. The three adult female spent a lot of time with the Majingelane male both mating and just relaxing.

DHB_1020 (800x470) DHB_1350 (800x451) DHB_1606 (800x548) DHB_1611 (800x588) DHB_1620 (800x572) DHB_1855 (800x556) DHB_1864 (800x498) DHB_1954 (800x480) IMG_0023 IMG_0192 IS8A0037

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the Leopards all is going extremely well especially with Thlangisa’s two female cubs now almost eight months old and rapidly turning into beautiful little princesses of the spotted kingdom.

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Dayone seems to be back in full strength, although he still has a bit of a limp but that does not seem to bother him at all as he has been hunting normally and also marking territory and being very vocal.

DHB_1172 (800x510) DHB_1698 (800x460) DHB_1707 (800x516) DHB_2356 (800x519) DHB_2347 (800x466) DHB_2134 (800x584) DHB_1931 (800x424) DHB_1920 (800x712) DSC_9126 DSC_9110 DSC_8949 DSC_0046 DHB_2447 (800x778) DHB_2445 (800x396) DHB_2369 (800x485) IMG_0096 IMG_0068 IMG_0057 IMG_0057 (2) IMG_0045 (2) IMG_0025 IMG_0022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We did not see Kashane a lot this time but for a male in his prime he does not have a lot to worry about so when we see him, this proud cat always gives us a sighting to remember.

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The Nyeleti male was pushed back a bit to his old territory further to the East with Dayone being back in full force.

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The Ravenscourt male was seen a lot in the south with the one sighting of him and the Torchwood male together. Let’s hope this beautiful young male can make a claim on the vacant area in the south so we can keep on seeing him.

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The Boulders female seems to be a lot more relaxed lately and she gave us chance to get close to her and enjoy a good sighting.

DHB_1795 (800x487) DHB_1800 (800x472)

 

 

 

 

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Xikavi was seen with three cubs once, but this elusive mom has not shown us them since but at least we can still see suckle marks.

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The elusive Tassleberry female, that we rarely see, gave us a pleasant surprise by showing us a very young but shy cub. We don’t see her a lot but let’s hope she can raise this one to adulthood.

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The young Torchwood male is doing well for himself by being nomadic at the moment he is staying alive till he is strong enough to make a claim on a territory so we can keep on seeing the beautiful male.

DHB_0405 (615x800) DHB_0452 (800x428) DHB_0488 (800x702) DHB_0494 (800x586) DHB_0501 (800x476) DHB_0900 (800x316) DHB_0901 (800x495) DSC_0142 IMG_0012 (2) IMG_0103 IMG_0179

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scotia seems to have claimed a bit of the central area for herself and she is doing well.

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Hlaba Nkunzi is doing very well and is still visiting Leopard Hills on regular basis, and we can now say that it looks like she does have cubs again but as rumor has it they are in the East again.

IS8A0056 IMG_0063 (2) IMG_0039 IMG_0015 DHB_2403 (800x533) DHB_2063 (800x513) DHB_1340 (800x472) DHB_1337 (800x564) DHB_0696 (800x373) DHB_0693 (800x540) DHB_0687 (800x671)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also had one sighting of the Hukumuri or Blue Eyed female in the North.

IMG_0037 IMG_0076 IMG_0108

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We did not see the pack of Wild dogs that often but they are now sixteen in total and when we see them they always provide us with some really good sightings.

DHB_0998 (800x533) DHB_1005 (800x540) DHB_1044 (800x533) DHB_1054 (800x360) DHB_1081 (800x448) DHB_1806 (800x531) DHB_1888 (800x667) DSC_9060 DSC_9092 IMG_0013 IMG_0119 (2) IMG_0185 IMG_0186 IMG_0192gt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There has also been a couple of Side Striped Jackals around, providing us with some special sightings of their puppies playing around.

DHB_1729 (800x521) DHB_1733 (800x477) DHB_1877 (800x446) DSC_9460 DSC_9469 DSC_9472 IMG_0017 IMG_0018 IMG_0026 IMG_0126

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The biggest surprise for us was having the amount of Cheetah sightings that we had over the last few months almost becoming a weekly sighting at least.

DHB_0364 (800x542) DHB_0369 (800x353) DHB_0866 (800x509) DHB_0885 (800x495) DHB_1150 (800x386) DHB_1835 (800x447) DHB_2163 (800x533) IMG_0019s IMG_0020 IMG_0027 IMG_0028 IMG_0153 IMG_0197

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are really blessed with the amount of Hyena sightings we are getting. Sitting at any Leopard kill you know there will be at least one Hyena in the area to keep them on their toes.

DHB_0893 (800x350) DHB_1370 (800x535) DHB_1375 (800x472) DHB_1383 (800x575) DHB_2416 (800x426) DSC_0201 IMG_0090 IMG_0105 IMG_0219 IMG_0226

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The general game sightings have been phenomenal as usual with lots of baby’s around ranging from baby impala to baby Elephant and all in between.

DHB_0355 (800x575) DHB_0509 (800x447) DHB_0669 (607x800) DHB_0796 (800x610) DHB_0903 (800x470) DHB_0965 (800x588) DHB_0973 (800x364) DHB_1008 (800x499) DHB_1222 (800x533) DHB_1255 (800x554) DHB_1415 (800x503) DHB_1533 (800x663) DHB_1688 (800x592) DHB_2422 (800x623) IMG_0007 IMG_0010 IMG_0012 IMG_0014 IMG_0017 (2) IMG_0019 IMG_0024 IMG_0034k IMG_0046 IMG_0112 IMG_0119 IMG_0134 IMG_0176 IS8A0003 IS8A0015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Summer being in full swing most of the migratory birds are here, making for beautiful aerial displays and chirping in the mornings to wake you up.

Ground Hornbill
Ground Hornbill
White Storks
White Storks
Egyptian Geese
Egyptian Geese
Pied Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
African Harrier Hawk
African Harrier Hawk
Pied Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
Ground Hornbill
Ground Hornbill
White Backed Puff Back
White Backed Puff Back
Barn Owl
Barn Owl
Little Grebe
Little Grebe
White Backed & Hooded Vultures
White Backed & Hooded Vultures
Hamerkop
Hamerkop

This year has been one amazing year with lots of surprises and once in a lifetime sightings. We cannot wait to see what 2015 has in store for us. Lastly we from the Leopard Hills Family would like to wish you happy New Year.

DHB_1017 (800x533)

Written and compiled by Johan de la Rey, Reece Verdoorn and Hugo Breed.

 

Hlaba Nkunzi’s Visit

Yesterday afternoon as guests were on their way up for Tea, before heading out on the Afternoon Safari – Hlaba Nkunzi walked by the library on her way to the main pool, scent marking every prominent bush and tree. After spending time drinking from the pool, she made her way to the pathway of Suite 8 and continued on her territorial patrol.

This morning we were joined by Dayone Male and Xikhavi Female as they moved through the lodge and on to the deck of Suite 5.

Always a privilege to view these animals as they comfortably move through the lodge.

 

Hlaba Nkunzi Drinking Main Pool

Hlaba Nkunzi Moving Main Deck

Hlaba Nkunzi Moving Suite 8 Path

Possibility of new cubs?

Over the last couple of days Hlaba Nkunzi has been seen spending time close to the Lodge. It also seems that she might have fresh suckle marks. We are all very excited and hoping that she might have a den site close to the camp.

Hopefully she decided to have this new litter in her old familiar stomping grounds…

DHB_0693 DHB_0690 DHB_0687 DHB_0696

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keep an eye on the Facebook page and Blog for further updates.

Written by Hugo Breed

Combined Ranger’s Report August & September 2014

Yet another two months have passed in a flash, and what an amazing two months it has been. Filled with spectacular game viewing, astonishing animal behaviour and interaction.  And that might just be one of the reasons why people return to the African bush…you never know what you might see next!

DHB_7577

Dayone started to be his old self again by patrolling the whole extent of his territory. Unfortunately, late in September he was seen limping very badly again. Hopefully he can bounce back as he did before.

DHB_7487 DHB_8450 DHB_8556 DHB_9713 DHB_9704 IMG_0016 IMG_0044

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kashane was again only seen a couple of times before he returned to the East.

DHB_9243 DHB_9255 DHB_9257

Nyeleti have provided us with some great sightings. He seems to be taking more of his kills up a tree. He is once again in top shape and has recovered from all previous injuries. He was also mating with Hlaba Nkunzi for a couple of days.

DHB_8946 DHB_9537 DHB_6944 DHB_6974 DHB_7335 DHB_7810 DHB_7854 DHB_8199 DHB_8432 DHB_8889

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over these two months there have been very few sightings of Torchwood. He has been keeping a low profile and also possibly having a look at some other territories outside of the West.

Ravenscourt have been spending more time in the Western Sector. After his mother was killed he turned into a beautiful young male Leopard.

DHB_0242 DHB_0250

DHB_0174

 

 

 

 

 

Hlaba Nkunzi have been moving around quite a lot and sightings have been scattered. She did however walk straight through the camp and reception on a couple of occasions, barely giving any notice to the guests standing in reception and watching in awe as such a beautiful animal saunters by.

DHB_6939 DHB_7816 DHB_7847 DHB_8158 DHB_8179 DHB_8399 DHB_8982 DHB_8991 DHB_9017 IMG_0028e IMG_0037t IMG_0056 IMG_0062 IMG_0083

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scotia started off in August by stealing a Waterbuck kill from a Cheetah. She had made her own Duiker kill close by and heard the Cheetah making its kill. Being the opportunistic animals that they are Scotia took a chance and managed to chase the Cheetah away. She seems to be doing extremely well.

DHB_6909 DHB_6924 DHB_7501 DHB_7509 DHB_7526 IMG_0003 IMG_0021k IMG_0062t

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thlangisa and the two cubs are also in tip top shape. The two youngsters are growing day by day and becoming more and more playful. Thlangisa is still providing food on a regular basis, making sure the cubs stay safe and healthy.

DHB_0209 DHB_6976 DHB_6997 DHB_7082 DHB_8493 DHB_8702 DHB_8761 DHB_9202 IMG_0020 IMG_0036 IMG_0042v IMG_0060 IMG_0120 IMG_0166

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Xikavi seems to be pregnant yet again. With the amount of times that she was mating with Nyeleti, we assume that he must be the father. Hopefully this time around her full motherly instincts will kick in and will she be able to raise the cubs to independence.

DHB_9396 DHB_9686 IMG_0305

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Dam 3 female have been her elusive self, and only seen once or twice on rare occasion. She was found on an Impala kill and also once trying to get the affection of Dayone.

IMG_0102l

The Majingilane males have continued their hostile takeover of the West. Chasing down the females in both prides. They have continued their mating with the Othawa females, and also seem to have mated with one of the Ximhungwe females.

DHB_0291 DHB_7374 DHB_7380 DHB_7414 DHB_7535 DHB_8573 DHB_8808 DHB_9345 DHB_9401 DHB_9696 DHB_9887 IMG_0024 IMG_0047 IMG_0073 IMG_0078 IMG_0091g

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Othawa pride has managed to keep the two remaining sub adults alive. There have also been reports of one of the sub adults being in the presence of one of the Majingilane males without any aggression. The two sub adults have managed to kill their own Warthog without any assistance from the adults.

DHB_7175 DHB_7386 DHB_7404 DHB_7448 DHB_7710 DHB_8380 DHB_8387 DHB_8441 DHB_9073 DHB_9076 DHB_9575 DHB_9822 DHB_9834 DHB_9891 IMG_0036r IMG_0149

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ximhungwes have kept the Majingilane at bay once again. Two of the males managed to track them down, but the somehow escaped their onslaught and one of the females led them away and mated with the one male. There are still five sub adults alive and well.

DHB_0094 DHB_0080 DHB_0098 DHB_7252 DHB_7257 IMG_0116

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheetah sightings are becoming a regular thing in the West. We have been lucky to see a couple of individuals over the last two months.

DHB_0004 DHB_0239 DHB_7191 DHB_9066 DHB_8639 DHB_8608 DHB_8600 DHB_8467 DHB_8320 DHB_7246 DHB_7225 IMG_0074 IMG_0007l DHB_9526 DHB_9506 IMG_0230 IMG_0115 IMG_0087

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Hyenas have been very active in the West. Most of the nights you can hear their distinct calls surrounding the camp.

DHB_0259 IMG_0115j IMG_0040 DHB_9690 DHB_9363 DHB_8797 DHB_8222 DHB_7792 DHB_7259 DHB_7219

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Wild Dogs decided to make their return to the West. They have brought their new litter of puppies for us to see. These painted wolves are always a special treat for rangers and guests alike.

DHB_9737 IMG_0209 IMG_0161 IMG_0150 IMG_0116k DHB_9806 DHB_9778 DHB_9756

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the migratory birds have already made their return back for Summer. The Wahlbergs Eagles are already in their nests from the previous years and we can hear the call of the Red Chested Cuckoos. We are still awaiting the beautiful call of the Woodland Kingfisher to wake us up in the mornings.

Bateleur
Bateleur
Little Grebe
Little Grebe
Juvenile Marshall Eagle
Juvenile Marshall Eagle
Egyptian Geese
Egyptian Geese
Lilac Breasted Roller
Lilac Breasted Roller
Saddle Bill Stork with Juveniles
Saddle Bill Stork with Juveniles
African Harrier Hawk
African Harrier Hawk
Juvenile Marshall Eagle
Juvenile Marshall Eagle
White Backed Vulture
White Backed Vulture
Pied Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
Ostrich
Ostrich
Grey Heron
Grey Heron
Green Back Heron
Green Back Heron
Red billed Oxpecker
Red billed Oxpecker
Fish Eagle
Fish Eagle
Wahlberg's Eagle
Wahlberg’s Eagle
Red headed Weaver
Red headed Weaver
Grey go-away Bird
Grey go-away Bird
Saddle bill Stork
Saddle bill Stork
Hadeda Ibis
Hadeda Ibis
Goliath Heron attacking Juvenile Saddle bill Storks
Goliath Heron attacking Juvenile Saddle bill Storks
Lilac breasted Roller
Lilac breasted Roller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General game sightings never disappoint. With rare sightings of Civet and Serval mixed in with massive herds of Buffalo and Elephant moving through the area.

IMG_0110 IMG_0087w IMG_0074j IMG_0028 IMG_0026 IMG_0025k IMG_0017 DHB_9451 DHB_9398 DHB_9381 DHB_9306 DHB_8518 DHB_8455 DHB_8111 DHB_7672 DHB_7641

Tree Agama
Tree Agama

DHB_7382

Civet
Civet

DHB_7290 DHB_6962 DHB_0128 DHB_0065 DHB_0034

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer at Leopard Hills is in full swing as we await the first of the rains to fill up the watering holes and turn the bush into a lush green once again.

IMG_0034

Written and compiled by Hugo Breed and Johan de la Rey.

Memories captured at Leopard Hills

John & Lesa Graybill recently stayed at Leopard Hills and managed to capture a some very special images which they shared with us and we’d love to share them with you.

Wild DogsThlangisaThlangisa in TreeThlangisa CubDayone Cane RatSunriseLeopard Hills WelcomeLeopard Hills Main DeckElephantsElephant CheetahJohn & Lesa Graybill and Ranger Johan de la Rey

If you have special Leopard Hills Images and memories, please post them on our Blog or Facebook Page.

Thank you for sharing your memories with us!

Ranger’s Report July 2014

It has been another action packed month out in the bush for all involved at Leopard Hills. Over this month some guests and rangers alike have experienced some pretty unique sightings, from a female Leopard giving it her all to protect her cubs from a Hyena, to a male Leopard killing an Impala and doing some impossible acrobatics to secure the kill in a tree.

DHB_6629

Dayone is once again moving a lot, and covering big areas. His limp has improved and he is pretty much walking as if he doesn’t have any injuries any more.

DHB_6717 DHB_6719 IMG_0025w IMG_0034 IMG_0045

 

 

Kashane has spent most of the month to the east with very few sightings of him in the West.

After the previous months Nyeleti seems to have been able to avoid further confrontation with the unidentified male, and recovered from the wounds. Nyeleti was the male Leopard that gave us a spectacular show as he killed an Impala behind the vehicle and then proceeded to take it up a tree, to avoid kleptoparasitism from a Hyena. For a while he couldn’t find a branch to safely secure the kill, and there were tense moments when everyone thought he was going to drop it into the Hyena’s mouth. He managed to jump at least two meters across to another branch with the Impala in his mouth.

DHB_5857 DHB_6118 DHB_6271 DHB_6285 DHB_6299 DHB_6312 DHB_6365 DHB_6382 DHB_6515 DHB_6533 DHB_6699 DHB_6827 IMG_0011 IMG_0015 IMG_0058

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Torchwood wasn’t seen very much this month, with him still being very nomadic and avoiding the dominant males.

IMG_0136

Every now and again the Ravenscourt male will wander into the Western Sector, exploring a bit and then returning East.

It seems to now be confirmed that both of Hlaba Nkunzi’s cubs have been killed. We are not sure what happened, but we were all very sad with this news. It seems that she might be looking to reclaim her old stomping grounds in the Western Sector, as we have been seeing a lot more of her in this past month.

DHB_5752 DHB_6214 DHB_6227 DHB_6251 IMG_0021 IMG_0039 DHB_6244

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thlangisa, the protector, is the female Leopard mentioned above, protecting her cubs. While we were enjoying a sighting with her and the two cubs, a Hyena appeared, investigating the area where Thlangisa had an Impala kill hoisted up a tree. When the Hyena came to close to one of the cubs and the cub not realising the Hyena was approaching, Thlangisa sprang into action, leaping out of the tree and attacking the Hyena with vigour. The Hyena did not know what hit it and made its way quickly out of the area. Both cubs are doing extremely well and their mom is taking care of them in the best way possible.

DHB_5907 DHB_5924 DHB_5932 DHB_5981 DHB_5989 DHB_5999 DHB_6392 DHB_6414 DHB_6425 DHB_6430 DHB_6438 DHB_6549 DHB_6569 DHB_6575 DHB_6763 DHB_6774 DHB_6882 DHB_6889 IMG_0020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Xikavi was once again found mating a couple of times with Nyeleti. We are all hoping that she will have at least one successful litter.

DHB_6109 DHB_6514 DHB_6516 IMG_0020e IMG_0043

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Scotia female seems to be spending a little bit more time in the Western Sector. On one occasion she stole a Waterbuck kill from a male Cheetah.

DSC_8267 DSC_8355 DSC_8370 DSC_8382

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the Majingilane coalition now having such a massive territory to control, we do not see a lot of them. This is a good thing for the two prides. These four males are definitely a force to be reckoned with as they all stand very tall and proud when they move through the West. When they were in the area they were mating with the one Othawa female again.

DHB_6155 DHB_6175 DSC_8284 DSC_8294 IMG_0036 IMG_0051 IMG_0052 IMG_0059

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Othawa pride has been moving a lot to avoid the Majingilane males. There are only two sub-adult cubs left in the pride, one male and one female. One of the cubs was separated for a couple of days, but luckily the Lionesses managed to find her again.

DHB_5882 DHB_5892 DHB_6016 DHB_6025 DHB_6042 DHB_6059 DHB_6827 DHB_6847 DHB_6856 IMG_0014

The Ximhungwe pride has also been moving from West to East to avoid the Majingilane. With a Lionesses leg being found on a bush walk, we have come to the conclusion that one of the Ximhungwe females has unfortunately been killed. We do not know if it were Hyenas or possibly a rogue male Lion, that was also seen in that area, that had killed her. The pride now consists of two adult females, one sub-adult male and four sub-adult females.

DHB_5772 DHB_5836 DHB_5947 DHB_5955 DHB_6620 DSC_7935 DSC_7939 DSC_7984 DSC_7993 IMG_0011j IMG_0019 IMG_0022 IMG_0024d IMG_0047 IMG_0048f IMG_0071 IMG_0115f IMG_0128h

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheetah sightings have once again been amazing, with us being able to see a different males and female moving through the area.

DHB_5818 DHB_6444 DHB_6466 DHB_6503 DHB_6747 DHB_6749 DSC_7845 DSC_7888 DSC_7906 DSC_8312 IMG_0017 IMG_0020ju IMG_0024 IMG_0096lk IMG_0115

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Hyena population has sky rocketed in the West. Very few drives go by without seeing at least one individual. With their high presence, it has forced the Leopards to start thinking a lot more about hoisting their kills.

DHB_5722 DHB_5733 DHB_5744 DHB_6191 DHB_6437 DSC_7702 DSC_7721 DSC_7753 DSC_8477 IMG_0001 IMG_0028 IMG_0126

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some days go by where the bush will be quiet in terms of the mammals, but the birds are always there to entertain us.

Grey Heron in flight
Grey Heron in flight
Brown Hooded Kingfisher
Brown Hooded Kingfisher
African Green Pigeon
African Green Pigeon
Southern Yellow billed Hornbill
Southern Yellow billed Hornbill
Hamerkop
Hamerkop
Large Spotted Eagle Owl
Large Spotted Eagle Owl
White Crested Helmet Shrike
White Crested Helmet Shrike
Dark Chanting Goshawk
Dark Chanting Goshawk
Hooded Vulture
Hooded Vulture
Fork tailed Drongo
Fork tailed Drongo
Juvenile Marshal Eagle
Juvenile Marshal Eagle
Red-billed Oxpecker
Red-billed Oxpecker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General game sightings have also been spectacular, ranging from Side Striped Jackal to Reedbuck.

DHB_5841 DHB_5899 DHB_5906 DHB_6077 DHB_6096 DHB_6161 DHB_6475 DHB_6506 DHB_6545 DHB_6647 IMG_0002 IMG_0002h IMG_0005 IMG_0007 IMG_0012 IMG_0019y IMG_0030 IMG_0042 IMG_0053 IMG_0054 IMG_0066 IMG_0117 IMG_0130

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As we head into August we start to feel the change in seasons as the wind will start to pick up and with that the Spring will also start to come. For more daily updates follow and like us on www.facebook.com/LeopardHills.

[KGVID width=”320″ height=”240″]https://www.leopardhills.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/CompilationJuly2014.flv[/KGVID]

Video of Thlangisa protecting her cubs courtesy of Leopard Hills guest Phil Anastasio.

Written and compiled by Hugo Breed, Johan de la Rey and Reece Verdoorn.

 

Dayone Male Leopard and Suite 5

As Game Drives left the Lodge yesterday afternoon, it wasn’t long until we received a Call from Sandra, our Head of Housekeeping that there was a leopard in the Lodge.

At first it was very difficult to see the Leopard, he was lying down as flat as he could possibly get right next to Suite 5’s door and pathway. The Nyala stood feeding about 5 meters from him for quite a while until he looked up and froze, obviously having the same difficulty as we did to identify what was on the browned winter grass, incredible how they blend into the environment. This Male Nyala then realised it was a Leopard and he frantically started alarming, which sent Dayone on his way.

As he was moving away from the very loud Nyala, not knowing which other predators have been attracted by the calls, it gave just enough time for the game drive vehicles to make their way back and see him walking away from suite 5.

 

Dayone Suite 5

Dayone Suite 5

Dayone Suite 5