August Sightings at Silvan Safari

My first month at Silvan Safari has been nothing short of extraordinary. From leopard cubs testing their independence to rare nocturnal encounters, the bush has been alive with activity. Here's a look at some of the month's highlights.

The bush is alive with movement and sound, each creature adding to its rhythm, Image Credit: Clayton Herb

Leopards

Tortoise Pan Male

The Tortoise Pan male has been particularly active, confidently marking his territory across the reserve. He's been seen mating with Makomsava, stealing kills from Tiyani, and even, on several occasions, interacting with Tiyani's young female cub, a fascinating dynamic to witness.

Tiyani and Cub

Tiyani continues to prove herself an exceptional mother. Her cub is gaining strength and confidence and is often seen around the lodge. With Tiyani providing regular meals, including several male kills this month, both mother and cub are thriving.

Kuchava, Rhulani, and Xipuku

While sightings of this trio remain consistent, Rhulani and Xipuku are gradually beginning their journey towards independence. Nonetheless, Kuchava's successful hunts have allowed for some memorable family sightings.

Young leopards are growing in confidence, giving us a glimpse into the future of the Sabi Sand, Image Credit: Clayton Herb

Makomsava

Makomsava's movements have been more elusive of late, as she's been following the Tortoise Pan male beyond her usual territory. Their pairing has been observed multiple times, and we look forward to seeing what unfolds!

Tlalamba and Tshipondo

Serving as a fantastic backdrop, the Molawati River has offered plentiful viewing opportunities of Tlalamba and her daughter Tshipondo. Kills hoisted in trees along the riverbank have given guests a chance to admire both leopards. Tshipondo is now starting to venture out on her own, hinting at her growing independence.

Sibuye and Cub

This month brought more frequent sightings of Sibuye and her cub in the northern part of the reserve. The young leopard is becoming increasingly relaxed around vehicles, creating fantastic photographic opportunities.

A mother's patience and protection define so many of our leopard sightings this month, Image Credit: Clayton Herb

Lions

Nkuhuma Pride

Though fragmented due to shifting male dominance, the Nkuhuma pride continues to deliver rewarding encounters. Two females have given birth this month, one with four cubs estimated at 6 to 8 weeks old and the other with two cubs around 4 to 5 weeks old. For now, the den site remains closed to ensure the little ones are undisturbed.

Shifting lion dynamics continue to shape the Nkuhuma pride, with new cubs adding to the turmoil, Image Credit: Marius Zeilinga

Ndhzenga Males

The Ndhzenga males are steadily increasing their presence in the area, pushing further north and west in an attempt to consolidate dominance. Both have been seen mating with Nkuhuma females, raising questions about the future dynamics of the pride.

The Ndhzenga males are pushing to secure their place in the Sabi Sand, Image Credit: Marius Zeilinga

Kambula Males

The Kambula males continue to hold their ground as a powerful force. Likely fathers of the new Nkuhuma cubs, they've been seen sharing kills with females and feeding confidently on an elephant carcass, showing no sign of yielding to the Ndhzenga males.

The Kambula males remain resolute, holding their ground as challenges mount, Image Credit: Marius Zeilinga

Rare Encounters

This month also offered two truly special sightings: a caracal near Big Dam and an aardvark close to Silvan, both extraordinary, seldom-seen creatures in the Sabi Sand, and even more diffucult to photograph!

Other Wildlife Highlights

• Elephants: Large herds have graced nearly every game drive, with playful calves delighting guests.
• Buffalo: While less frequent than previous months, we've still encountered sizeable herds, particularly near the dwindling waterholes.
• Wild Dogs: Sightings have been sporadic as packs den to the south, though occasional hunts across Silvan have provided some thrilling action.
• Cheetahs: A two-week stretch of regular sightings earlier this month offered wonderful opportunities to observe these cats, always a treasured and rare opportunity.
• White Rhinos: Incredible sightings of elephant bulls continued this past month, with a highlight being a calm female and her four-month-old calf who stopped to graze nearby.

It's always peaceful watching elephants pause to drink, Image Credit: Clayton Herb

Reflections from the Bush

August has been a month of abundance, with each drive reminding us of unpredictability of the African bush. Ready to experience the magic of the Sabi Sand for yourself? Plan your Silvan Safari journey with us and witness these extraordinary moments yourself.