Bush Bulletin: May 2024
Phew! We are really sorry if you have been waiting a while for the latest updates from The Bush. We have been slightly busy with some incredible safari moments, so let’s catch you all up.
Ximungwe Shenanigans – Justin
With the Ximungwe Cubs growing at an exponential rate, the pride has started moving to further reaches in the reserve. However, this has not slowed the rate at which the pride has been feeding, with a kill being present almost every second day! It is incredible to see the strong bonds between all these beautiful females and the thought of how even more well established this pride will be in the next year or two has us all very excited. View our Instagram Reel on the latest encounter here.
March of the Moths – Johan
The processionary caterpillar is the larval stage of the reticulate bagnest moth. We wouldn’t suggest picking up these hairy little caterpillars as their hairs can cause irritation, burning and itching. The name ‘bagnest’ is derived from the pupating stage of this moth’s life cycle, when the silken cocoons can be seen in a circular conglomeration on trees (‘bag nests’), held together by a silk mesh. Once the moth emerges from the cocoon, it lays eggs on trees and shrubs with palatable leaves. After hatching from eggs, the caterpillars begin to feed on the leaves of their first host plant.
Once having devoured that food source, they trail off in single file to their next meal, nose-to-tail and connected via a silk trail started by the leader. The leader will also make use of pheromones and chemical clues to show the way. These long lines are most often seen during the colder months of the year. If the line is disrupted, the caterpillars become disoriented, and the line will come to a complete stop before a new leader takes control and leads the way.
Mahetalelo Moves in – Morné
As we all know autumn is the season of change, the leaves of all the beautiful trees start falling off, the flowers start fading and the lush green terrain turns into an orange, yellow and brown savanna of pristine game viewing! With this change in season, there was quite the change in leopard dynamics around the lodge. Focusing specifically on the gorgeous Mahetalelo female, this young (3 years old) female leopard has been truly putting herself out there so to speak. We first really paid attention to her when we had her fighting with a much older and more dominant female (Kelly Dam) and directly afterwards proceeded to attempt to mate with the biggest male in the west (Ravenscourt). although failing, this display was truly something that drew all our attention.
Shortly after this she was involved in a few more territorial disputes with Kelly Dam. Now it seems she has succeeded in taking over Kelly Dams’ territory, sent-marking and calling, one of her marking spots our bush breakfast sight, and successfully mating with Ravenscourt for the first time! So as the seasons changed so did not only Mahetalelo’s life but all of ours following the leopard dynamics in the reserve!
Room for Renovation – Justin
Not only has the bush been abuzz with animal activity and incredible sightings, but with the sounds of power tools and hard work around Leopard Hills. We have started our renovation and refurb mission with all rooms getting some TLC in order to keep offering the incredible standard of comfort that we have been for the past 26 years. Especially those returning to us will notice the beautiful new bathrooms, modern and updated furniture as well as the stunning finishes installed to each room. If you have not stayed with us before, then why not book to come and see these gorgeous suites for yourself.
If you’re interested in experiencing an awe-inspiring South African safari, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our reservations desk at book@leopardhills.com.
Alternatively, click here and make use of the quick and seamless online booking process and start planning your ideal vacation today.
We look forward to welcoming you to Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve.
