Written by Isaiah Banda
This past month offered an exhilarating mix of the expected and the surprising, a testament to how alive the reserve remains, even in the cooler months.
Winter months are always my favorite of the year even though it is very cold, elegance, and resilience converge in one of nature’s most captivating predators, the cheetah.
Over the past few weeks, guests and guides alike have been treated to exceptional sightings of Mabula’s male cheetah coalition, often seen using termite mounds to scan their territory or simply bask in the sun.
In a reserve where wild dogs, Brown Hyena, and leopards roam, this coalition carves out its niche with stealth and precision. Unlike lions or leopards, cheetahs cannot roar. Instead, they communicate with chirps, purrs, hisses, and yelps. This is due to their unique throat anatomy, excluding them from the Panthera genus and placing them in their own group: Acinonyx.
Their semi-retractable claws, always visible in their tracks, provide grip and traction, perfect for sprinting, but a disadvantage for tree climbing. Combined with long limbs, oversized nasal passages for airflow, and a muscular tail for balance, everything about the cheetah is built for speed. But that speed comes at a cost, they lack the raw power of lions or the stealthy versatility of leopards.
Yet in many ways, cheetahs are perhaps the most cat-like of all, agile, elegant, and deeply adaptive. They are true members of the Felidae family, though they belong to their own genus, a cousin who plays by their own rules. Beneath their physical beauty lies a vulnerability, cheetahs have low genetic diversity due to a historic genetic bottleneck. This makes them more prone to disease, infertility, and developmental issues. In an increasingly fragmented world, their survival depends not only on speed but on space, safety, and human protection.
Each cheetah sighting on Mabula is a privilege, a fleeting reminder of nature’s delicate balance. Seeing the coalition stand tall on a termite mound, surveying their world, is more than a wildlife moment. It’s a glimpse of evolutionary perfection, endurance, and silent strength.
If you’ve spent any time on safari at Mabula Game Lodge lately, you may have spotted the tall, elegant silhouettes of giraffes browsing among the karee and acacia trees. These gentle giants, the tallest land animals on Mabula and on Earth, are always a crowd favourite, but behind those long lashes and towering necks lies a fascinating story of survival, social bonds, and ancient adaptations.
Giraffe calves are born after a 15-month gestation and can stand within an hour of birth, an essential skill in predator-rich environments. While they nurse from their mothers for up to 9–12 months, they begin nibbling on leaves as early as four weeks old.
By the time they are around 15 months, most calves are fully weaned and starting to fend for themselves. The bond between mother and calf remains strong, but weaned youngsters will start exploring independence and integrate into the greater herd.
Socially, giraffes form loose, ever-changing herds with no permanent structure. Females with calves often group together in what we refer to as a “crèche,” while males roam solo or form bachelor groups. When it comes to mating, males engage in a ritual called necking, where they swing their powerful necks at each other in dominance battles.
The victor earns the right to mate with a receptive female, who has a 5-day estrus period that attracts considerable attention from the males in the area. One of the lesser-known and fascinating behaviours of giraffes is osteophagia, the chewing of bones. Yes, you read that right.
Giraffes are occasionally spotted gnawing on old bones, gaining much-needed minerals like calcium and phosphorus that are otherwise scarce in their leafy diet. Add to this their unique heart, weighing up to 16 kg to pump blood to that lofty head, their ability to sleep for just minutes at a time while standing, and their striking coat patterns that act like fingerprints, and you’ve got a creature worthy of both scientific admiration and safari awe.
Giraffes are not known for forming lasting bonds outside of close kinship. The only true, enduring connection is that between a mother and her calf. Males tend to lead solitary lives, roaming widely in search of females in estrus.
Females, on the other hand, often associate loosely with one another, especially when calves are involved. These female-led groups may split and regroup often, moving through the landscape and temporarily merging with other giraffe herds before drifting apart again. In Mabula we are very lucky to experience these behaviour first hand.
But a particularly interesting and slightly longer-term form of association has been prevalent lately: the giraffe creche. This is a nursery-like system where mothers entrust their young to the care of a few females while they wander off to browse or drink. It’s a beautiful example of cooperative care in the animal kingdom. Giraffe breeding happens throughout the year, although conception rates increase during the rainy season
We recently observed a particularly touching moment: a lone female giraffe leading a creche of three calves calmly across the airstrip, while their mothers were away feeding, an image that perfectly captures the trust and cooperation among these gentle giants. Yet their presence still limits how far mothers can travel. This is why the partial synchronization of births is so beneficial, it encourages mothers with calves of similar ages to stick together.
The young giraffes form tight social bonds, engaging in playful interactions like the “nosing ceremony,” where they rub noses before bouncing apart. These behaviors help strengthen social ties and ensure safety in numbers. At Mabula, every sighting of these majestic browsers reminds us of nature’s quiet marvels and the intricate balance of life on the plains.
We were exceptionally fortunate with lion sightings this month as we observed them going about their daily activities. The pride remained active and visible, offering our guests memorable moments in the wild.
Earlier in the month, a few members of the pride were relocated to another area. This sudden change seemed to stir the remaining lions, who began searching the reserve, possibly in an effort to reunite with their separated family members.
Their movements had our guiding team covering vast areas around Lake Kyle, following fresh tracks and scanning likely resting spots in hopes of another encounter. The energy and determination of both the lions and the guides added an exciting edge to every safari drive.
In the midst of their search, the lions had a stroke of luck when they came across a group of wildebeest. Using the element of surprise and coordinated effort, they successfully brought one down, a powerful reminder of nature’s raw beauty and the daily struggle for survival.
It was a calm and quiet morning on the bottom Serengeti plains when we found our resident male lion resting peacefully in the golden grass. He was lying flat, eyes half-closed, soaking in the first warmth of the rising sun. The gentle breeze carried the scent of wild sage, and all seemed still as the morning light bathed the open plains. Guests sat in hushed awe, taking in the regal presence of Africa’s apex predator in his most vulnerable, relaxed state.
Suddenly, without warning, the lion’s ears twitched, catching a sound or scent beyond our perception. He lifted his head abruptly, his posture alert and his golden eyes sharply focused toward the west. For a moment, he paused, frozen in concentration. Then, with unmistakable purpose, he rose, stretched with a slow, commanding yawn, and immediately broke into a determined trot. His muscular frame moved with power and urgency across the plain, kicking up small clouds of dust as he disappeared into the tall grass. Something had called him, perhaps the distant contact call of a pride member, or the scent of a fresh kill carried by the wind.
Guests were left stunned, whispering guesses and exchanging excited glances. One jokingly said, “He must’ve heard breakfast is served!” And in the wild, that might not be far from the truth. Whether it was the call of a lioness, the scent of an opportunity, or the instinctive pull of territory, we had just witnessed a powerful moment of lion behavior, a reminder that even during moments of rest, the wild is always listening, always watching, always ready to respond.
With winter in full swing, our June newsletter highlighted the incredible sight of elephants exploring the mountainous areas of the reserve. During the colder months, these giants are often drawn to the higher ground where vegetation is still accessible, while in summer, the abundance of food on the flatter areas of the reserve usually keeps them closer to the lowlands.
Their presence high up on the mountains always creates a unique and breathtaking spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it. Last month, however, the guides had to work extra hard to track these majestic animals. With the elephants spending more time up in the mountains, sightings were not as frequent, and guides needed to adjust their safari routes and plans.
Timing was crucial, and they often had to position themselves near water sources to catch the elephants coming down the slopes for a drink. These moments, although challenging to predict, were incredibly rewarding for both guides and guests. This month has been a completely different story.
We have been delighted to see the elephants spending the majority of their time on the lower grounds around the beautiful Modjadji area. This shift has made sightings much easier and more consistent, bringing immense joy to our guests and guides alike. The dense herds and relaxed viewing opportunities have created some truly unforgettable experiences.
It is perfectly normal for elephants to move between the mountains and the lowlands during this time of the year as they follow the availability of food and water. These seasonal movements form an important part of their natural behavior and highlight their adaptability to changing conditions. Whether high up on the mountain slopes or grazing peacefully below, these gentle giants never fail to leave us in awe.
With winter in full swing, the reserve has also come alive after dark in the most thrilling ways. Our nocturnal wildlife has made bold appearances, transforming night safaris into an unforgettable adventure beneath the stars. Guests have returned from drives wide-eyed with excitement, recounting their close encounters with some of Mabula’s most elusive creatures. From the haunting call of the nightjar to the rustle of unseen movement in the grass, every night out on the reserve has felt like stepping into another world.
We’ve been truly spoiled with an incredible array of sightings, Bat-Eared Foxes trotting through open clearings of Ngorongoro plain, a shy Serval slinking through the tall grass, the spotted shimmer of a Civet Cat, and the ghostly figure of the Brown Hyena skulking along the tree line.
Even more extraordinary have been the rare and fleeting glimpses of an Aardvark digging for termites and the secretive Aardwolf, its mane raised in cautious curiosity. These are the kinds of animals that make seasoned rangers sit up and take notice, and guests feel as though they’ve stepped into a private wildlife documentary. But a night safari is more than just what you see, it’s about what you feel.
The cool evening breeze, the hush of anticipation, and the dramatic canvas of a starlit Mabula sky create an atmosphere that no daytime safari can match. The spotlight swings gently across the bush, catching the glittering eyes of a Black-Backed Jackal or revealing a herd of impalas frozen in alert silence. Every sound is amplified, every movement full of mystery. It’s an immersive sensory experience where nature feels raw, wild, and deeply intimate.
Whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning safari enthusiast, a night drive at Mabula is a must. It’s where the hidden world of the African bush comes to life, and where the thrill of the unknown promises a story you’ll be telling long after your return. Don’t miss the chance to see the secret side of the reserve. The night belongs to the bold and at Mabula, it belongs to you.
And if you’re lucky, just lucky enough you might catch the glint of a white-tailed mongoose darting between the shadows, or hear the eerie whoop of a distant hyena as the stars blaze overhead. These are the moments that can’t be captured on camera or explained in words.
They’re felt deep in the soul. At Mabula, night isn’t just a time, it’s a wild realm waiting to be explored. So next time you’re here, ask for the night drive. Trust us some of Africa’s best-kept secrets only come out after dark. We were also treated to a brief but always entertaining sighting of a pack of wild dogs. The pack appeared near the edge of the open plains, moving with their signature energy and coordination.
Though their visit was short-lived, their playful interactions and constant communication offered a fascinating glimpse into their social structure. Guests were thrilled by the unexpected encounter, as sightings of these endangered predators are always a rare and memorable experience. Moments like these remind us of the rich biodiversity that thrives in our reserve.
The hippopotamus sightings at Ngulubi Dam have been nothing short of spectacular this month. With daytime temperatures dropping and the water remaining quite cold, many of the hippos emerged from the dam to bask in the warmth of the sun. Their large bodies could be seen sprawled along the banks, soaking in every bit of heat during the day.
Interestingly, the hippos have chosen the northwestern corner of Ngulubi Dam as their preferred resting spot. This area offers them a quiet, shallow stretch of water and easy access to nearby grazing areas during the night. However, the location poses a viewing challenge for those exploring the area by vehicle, as dense vegetation and the curve of the dam make visibility difficult from the road.
To overcome this, our guided bushwalks proved to be an invaluable experience. Accompanied by trained field guides, guests were able to approach from a safe distance on foot, allowing for unobstructed views of these semi-aquatic giants in their natural habitat. The sight of a pod of hippos grunting, yawning, and occasionally splashing was a highlight for many.
These close-up encounters provided a deeper understanding of hippo behavior, from their social structures to their territorial nature in the water. It also served as a reminder of the value of walking safaris, not just for immersion in nature, but for accessing places and wildlife that vehicles often cannot reach. Ngulubi Dam continues to be a treasured location for both guides and guests alike.
While the hippos occupied one secluded corner of Ngulubi Dam, the resident crocodiles seemed to prefer a different spot altogether. They, too, spent most of their days out of the water, stretched out along the sandy banks soaking up the winter sun. With the water temperature dropping significantly during the day, both species were clearly drawn to the warmth offered by the sun-drenched shores.
Crocodiles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. This behavior is typical during the colder months, and July was no exception. Guests were treated to some incredible views of these prehistoric-looking reptiles lying motionless, mouths agape, as they thermoregulated. Their choice of sunbathing sites, often slightly elevated, gave us an excellent opportunity to observe them from a distance without disturbance.
One of the most exciting sightings this month was the presence of baby crocodiles near the dam wall. Tiny and well-camouflaged, they were seen basking on the edges, occasionally slipping into the water when approached. This rare sight sparked much excitement among guides and guests alike, as juvenile crocodiles are not often spotted due to their vulnerability and natural instinct to remain hidden.
Interestingly, this discovery also shed light on the unusually high number of water monitors observed on the dam wall during June. It’s now likely that the monitors were taking advantage of the crocodile nesting season, feeding on unguarded or newly hatched eggs. This interaction is a striking example of the complex and often harsh dynamics of the ecosystem, where even the fiercest predators must protect their young from opportunistic scavengers like the water monitor lizard.
Birdlife at Mabula During Winter
With the migratory birds having already left Mabula for warmer regions, the overall number of bird species on the reserve has naturally decreased. During this time of year, we primarily observe the birds that do not migrate, which is an important reminder of how seasonal changes influence the dynamics of our ecosystem. Even so, the birdlife remains incredibly vibrant and offers guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy sightings during their safaris.
Despite it being winter, birdwatching on the reserve continues to be exceptional. Many resident species remain active, and the lack of dense foliage at this time of the year actually makes it easier to spot birds as they move about. Guides have reported that guests are thoroughly enjoying the variety and frequency of sightings, even without the presence of our migratory visitors.
We have been especially fortunate during our dedicated bird safaris with guests. Sightings have ranged from a variety of waterbirds gracefully patrolling the dams, to striking Yellow-billed Hornbills perched along the safari tracks. Flocks of helmeted guineafowls have been a common sight, moving in their characteristic groups across open spaces, while rollers have added bursts of color to the dry winter landscape.
Woodpeckers and shrikes have also been spotted frequently, their behaviors captivating guests who appreciate the unique foraging habits of these species. Shrikes are fascinating to watch as they often hunt small prey and occasionally impale them on thorns or branches, a method used to store food. Meanwhile, woodpeckers can often be heard tapping on tree trunks in search of insects hiding beneath the bark, a familiar and welcome sound in the reserve during this quieter season.
While the reserve may not be as densely populated with birds as it is during the summer months, the quality of sightings remains outstanding. Bird safaris this winter have allowed guests to slow down and truly appreciate the diversity and beauty of our resident species.
These experiences serve as a reminder that every season offers something unique at Mabula Game Lodge, and birdwatching is no exception. Sundowners and coffee stops are always a highlight of the safari experience, offering guests a moment to pause and fully appreciate the beauty of the bush. These carefully selected locations allow for breathtaking views and the opportunity to connect with nature in a relaxed setting.
Whether enjoying a warm cup of coffee at sunrise or a refreshing drink as the sunsets, these stops create lasting memories and enhance the overall quality of the safari.
Lastly. To all our rangers, thank you for your tireless dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment to protecting our precious wildlife and natural heritage. Because of you, the beauty of our fauna and flora will live on for generations to come. You are the silent guardians of the wild, and we salute you.
From Isaiah Banda & Mabula family.
Safari Greetings.
Photo Contributions – Isaiah Banda, Mabula Guides, JD Pretorius, Mabula guests, Richard Crawshaw
