Category: Bush Bulletin

We’re excited to, once again, share the latest updates and sightings from the Madikwe Hills field guides. In this month’s edition of the Bush Bulletin, our resilient cheetah – Selati – made a swift recovery from pneumonia, the Kwena Pride welcomed two new cubs, the lodge’s waterhole has become a bustling hub of wildlife activity, and the dry season has brought sightings of rare species.

Selati Intervention

Selati, one of the cheetahs in the reserve, contracted a mild case of pneumonia after spending a couple of cold nights next to the Groot Marico River. This is not an ideal situation as cheetahs have large nostrils and lungs to allow quick air intake so that they can breathe easily while running and suffocating their prey.

She was given a cocktail of antibiotics and vitamins to help fight off the pneumonia. She is a strong young lady and by the next day she was hunting again. At the moment, Steenbuck seems to be her favourite food.

We are very hopeful and excited for her future here in Madikwe.

The Kwena Pride

There are currently 2 new members in the pride. We don’t see the pride much these days as they are hiding the cubs along the river. We have only seen the cubs once, however as they grow, we will have the privilege of spending quality time with them.

The Lodge Waterhole

Watching the elephants come and drink in front of the lodge has been quite the treat this dry season. We have seen some amazing interactions between all the species. The highlight is seeing how elephants don’t like sharing; it is very entertaining watching the baby elephants chasing other animals away. It does make it difficult to take a mid-day nap as there is so much happening right in front of the rooms.

The Advantage of a Dry Bush

The dry season is in full swing. We are embracing the opportunity to find some of the rarer species here in Madikwe. We have been spoilt with a lot of the small nocturnal creatures as well as rare antelope species that we don’t see as often. The big reason for this is that food and water resources are becoming scarcer. The animals have limited options which increases our chances of seeing them on their way to, or from water.

Leopards of Madikwe

Even though seeing a leopard in Madikwe is fairly rare, we were lucky this last month! This is all due to the bush being more open (less leaves and long grass) and water sources are few, making it easier to spot them. We are feeling a bit spoilt at the moment and enjoying it whilst it lasts.

We invite you to visit Madikwe Hills and experience incredible wildlife sightings for your self. Book online or contact our reservation team to plan your dream safari getaway today.