It is the beautiful month of June and the bush is transformed into a kaleidoscope of breathtaking colours. This is predominantly with thanks to the Tamboties (Spirostachus Africana) and their autumn leaves, offering hues of the most intense crimson reds to the softest shades of orange. Winter is definitely approaching, with temperatures slowly dropping in the early mornings and late afternoons.
 
Since our last report, our two new ‘Madikwe boys' have adjusted to their new home very well. They have taken to the north of the reserve but have also been spotted in the southern reaches.  Their condition is looking great, as they are extremely well looked after by the northern female and her daughter. We are expecting their first offspring to surface soon - which will be the first generation of the Wetlands Pride to our reserve.

As it is autumn and the bush is thinning out, we are also encountering spectacular leopard sightings and are hoping that it will only get better, as it is such a great privilege to spend a moment in time with one of these magnificent creatures. We were very spoilt a couple of weeks ago in having a mating pair of leopards right in front of the deck at the lodge, sunning on the rocks. This is a truly a rare and special opportunity to view these big cats in their natural environment. Needless to say this caused great excitement with the staff at the lodge and a few fortunate guests.

Most of our summer migrant birds have left for the warmer temperatures of Europe and Northern Africa; being a sure sign that winter is approaching. Against the contrasting winter colors of the grass there are still some beautiful feathered friends like the Pigmy Kingfisher, the Purple Crested Turaco and the Yellowthroated Longclaw, to name but a few that still capture our attention with their awe striking colours.

A couple of big tuskers have been in musth lately, and have been wooing the breeding herds. Regular encounters down in the Mkuze river leaves us breathless when mom's and their calves descend to the water.

Not forgetting the fifth member of our Amakhosi Five, the cheetah, sightings still remain regular.   

From one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Hope to see you soon.
Werner Muller
Amakhosi Ranger