Tiyani’s Tale: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal

Back in 2016, I found myself in the midst of constructing the new Silvan Safari lodge in Sabi Sand Private Nature Reserve. Little did I know that during this time, a wild leopard named Tiyani would come into my life and change it forever. Tiyani was born in the lodge spa during construction, tragically losing her mother at a young age. Despite the odds, she bravely took over her mother's territory and made Silvan her home.

Silvan has been Tiyani's home since the moment she was born

Facing Life's Wild Moments

Despite many encounters and bush walks, it wasn't until the challenging times of COVID-19 that our profound bond truly solidified. On a particularly dark day in mid-April 2020, I found myself at a crossroads, contemplating the closure of my business and grappling with many personal setbacks. Feeling isolated and overwhelmed, I sought solace in a moment of meditation with the theme of being found! With the overwhelming feeling that nobody was there, little did I know that in that moment of despair, I would be found by none other than Tiyani herself.

As I opened my eyes, there she was, Tiyani, gazing back at me with a knowing look. It was as if she sensed my turmoil and the weight of my burdens. A wild leopard, yet a familiar presence in my life, Tiyani became a beacon of light during my darkest hours. She guided me through the tough times with her silent companionship and unwavering presence.

A connection formed of presence and mutual respect in a time of need

A Transcending Bond

Tiyani and I embarked on a remarkable journey of connection and understanding that transcended the boundaries of man and beast. I fondly recall our conversations, where I jokingly challenged her to take the lead in our encounters, given my poor tracking skills. She would humour me by waiting eagerly at the lodge gate, or on an open area for our adventures into the bush, or playfully joining us during homeschooling sessions with the children.

Despite her wild nature, Tiyani displayed a remarkable sense of camaraderie and communication with me. She showed me the way forward through her actions, whether it was lounging on the deck while we went about our daily routines or bringing me face-to-face with tough decisions that needed to be made. She became my mentor in her own right, a reminder of resilience and the importance of nurturing those around us.

Tiyani is a symbol of resilience and strength

Delicate Dance with Mother Nature

We certainly had our ups and downs. As our connection grew, Tiyani, like ourselves took up permanent residence at Silvan, which led us to having to have several conversations about her not completely decimating the Nyala and Bushbuck population that also made Silvan their home. Always conflicted by Tiyani’s need to eat, and my desire to protect all things great and small. I remember waking up one morning, and Tiyani had made a kill which she had placed in the Leadwood tree on the breakfast deck, but she had invited both her cub and the dominant male for breakfast!

For six months, Tiyani and I shared a bond that defied all expectations. As life began to return to normalcy and hope flickered on the horizon, Tiyani retreated to the bush to resume her natural ways, while the kids and I found ourselves back in Cape Town. Yet, the echoes of our time together lingered on, a testament to the unbreakable connection we shared.

A connection forged in the African bush is one that will last a lifetime

A New Generation of Tiyani

And then, just a few weeks ago, Tiyani gifted us with a sight beyond belief - the birth of her two adorable cubs. In a rare display of trust and companionship, she chose to welcome her newborns amidst the hustle and bustle of the lodge, right beneath the main deck. It was a moment of awe and wonder, a reminder of the bond we had forged amidst chaos and uncertainty.

Since giving birth, Tiyani has moved den locations, which is perfectly normal as leopards are incredibly secretive, often moving their cubs to new dens every few days to keep them safe. If you're following us on social media, you may have seen that since the move, Tiyani has been spotted mating with the Tortoise Pan male, who is thought to be the father of this litter. In many cases, this can suggest that she lost her litter, but we have received promising information that suggests her cubs are still alive! So, make sure you're following us to see future updates straight from the bush.

Tiyani nesting with her newborn cubs under the deck at Silvan Safari

To this day, whenever I return to Silvan, Tiyani seeks me out, her presence a reminder of the enduring bond we share. From the depths of despair to the joy of new beginnings, Tiyani will always hold a special place in my heart, a true companion in the wilderness of life.