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Lions of Timbavati
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"A very lion orientated week, the past week was for Vusi and Matt!
It was awesome to catch up with the cubs of the Monwana pride and to see the Avoca pride (3rd and 4th frame) healthy and well!"
https://africageographic.com/stories/kee...-reserves/
Keeping count – wildlife populations in Kruger’s private nature reserves Balule – Balule has experienced substantial growth in its lion population over the last decade. However, the verified numbers from the 2020 and 2021 censuses indicate a stabilisation and a minor decline, from 137 to 124 individuals. Curiously, Balule’s lion population has been nearly double that of neighbouring Klaserie and Timbavati in recent years. This could be partly explained by high prey biomass, but of particular interest is the high proportion of mature and young males in Balule compared to “normally” observed demographics. The managers theorise that may be due to the reserve’s geographical location. Young dispersal males may be pushed continually further west until they reach Balule, which marks the western boundary of this section of the Kruger ecosystem, where they can go no further without breaking out of the protection of the reserve. However, this leaves unanswered questions about Klaserie as the immediate neighbour to the east (see below). Typically, high lion densities are associated with lower spotted hyena numbers, but this is not the case in Balule. 96 individual spotted hyenas were identified during the 2021 predator census, suggesting that spotted hyena densities in Balule are roughly on par with the surrounding reserves. Klaserie – Klaserie’s call-up predator census in 2021 yielded a count of just 18 lions, compared to around 40 and 50 in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Naturally, this does not represent the reserve’s total lion population. However, this is a significant drop from previous years, and the call-up counts of 2021 were dominated by spotted hyena responses (80%). 141 spotted hyenas were counted in the 2021 census, compared to just under 80 the previous year. Lions and spotted hyenas are in direct competition, and a rise in hyena numbers could account for lower-than-expected lion populations. Timbavati – According to the reserve ecologists, Timbavati has a population of between 55-60 lions which is in line with the long-term trend of the reserve. Thornybush – The current resident lion population on Thornybush numbers 26 individuals. Reserve authorities estimate between 25 and 30 spotted hyenas. Umbabat – The lion population was estimated at around 12 to 16 individuals, belonging to between two and three prides. The hyena numbers are believed to be approximately 50 to 60, and reports suggest that the population is growing. 
Mongawane males
 *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author 2 Birmingham breakaway young males  *This image is copyright of its original author  *This image is copyright of its original author
 (06-07-2022, 01:02 PM)Potato Wrote: Mongawane males I don’t quite know the forum rules,,,,but @Potato could you please add credits when you do your posts? I like to index things and it makes it a bit easier. Plus, I think maybe it keeps the photos from being removed for copyright later I suppose
Klaserie Drift update
We are thrilled to see the newest additions to the River pride have been properly introduced to the pride, now often being found with their aunties and older cousins in tow. Despite this, one of the most special sightings of May was when guide Emily came across the 3 cubs stashed safely in a drainage line, patiently waiting for mom to return. The little cubs curiously approached the vehicle - giving our guests a thorough check - before returning to snuggles and play with each other. A heart-warming, bucket-list sighting for sure.  *This image is copyright of its original author The rest of the pride is still somewhat fragmented - with the main group varying between 14 and 17 members and a breakaway group of 3 lionesses occasionally joining forces with the 3 sub-adult males who are pushing into independence. Hosi and Socha are moving in ever-larger circles, their scarred faces betraying the many fights they have won to keep hold of their kingdom. On one particular morning, our guests were overjoyed to witness them fighting over the remains of an impala kill - an impressive affair! After an astounding 3 and a half years at the helm, we wonder how much longer can these impressive boys remain in control? For the sake of the newest cubs and the stability of the pride, we hope for a while longer yet.  *This image is copyright of its original author
 (06-09-2022, 02:28 PM)Potato Wrote: Klaserie Drift update At this rate, the Klaserie River Pride will overpopulate the area lol. 
Red road male.
Page name " Lions of timbavati". https://m.facebook.com/groups/1769300403...361086709/  (06-15-2022, 06:35 AM)DARK MANE Wrote: Red road male. There’s no way he ventured this far north lol (06-15-2022, 06:47 AM)Mdz123 Wrote:(06-15-2022, 06:35 AM)DARK MANE Wrote: Red road male. Its RRM. Post says Manyeleti which is correct. The group hosts posts for surrounding areas also. |
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