21 February
Afternoon drive
The bushveld holds unexpected surprises every day! This
drive was no exception! As we headed out from the lodge we heard a tree
squirrel alarm calling in the drainage line in front of the lodge. We went in
to investigate! On our arrival we found a Walberg’s eagle perched in a dead
marula tree, unfortunately not the leopard we were hoping for, but interesting
none the less. We headed west from the lodge, shortly after despatcher we came
across a herd of elephant. Slowly grazing and feeding on the grounded marula
fruits, under the marula tree. We spent some time watching them feed and waited
for the opportunity to watch them drink water, as they were heading towards the
large body of water just south of them. Our patience was rewarded! They came
straight to the dam, but they were not alone, a dagga boy was relaxing in the
water were they wanted to drink. The elephants did not let this deter them as
they chased the buffalo out of the water. To everyone’s surprise the elephants
did not drink from the dam, but rather headed over the dam wall. Our entertainment
was about to start! For the elephant is a heavy beast witch can weigh up to
7 000kg, and the elephants know this as they devised a cunning plan to go
down the steep slope without putting too much pressure on the joints… body
slide! It looked like the elephants enjoyed themselves, as they slid down the
muddy slopes. It showed the cunning minds of the elephant, and made for great
entertainment for the whole vehicle!
Kids and adults alike! Just comes to show that even the mighty elephant
can have jolly good fun!
22 February
Yet another nippy overcast morning at Nkorho. Nevertheless
it made for a good morning drive! Just a couple of hundred meters east of the
lodge, the two Matimba male lion coalition was resting in the grass! These were
two very impressive lions. Beautiful manes and large body size just showing the
immense power of these big cats! We headed off leaving the beasts to their
peace, and came across a bull elephant which was not happy with our presence!
It trumpeted and shook its head long before we approached. Giving all the
signs, using body language, that he is not pleased with our presence.
Respecting the animals space we waited for him to move off before we made our
way back to the lodge. Nothing like a good adrenaline rush to start off your
morning!
Greetings
Jaces Bornman
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