There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
We continue to refer to this pride in sub-groups A-C, please see August 2022 report for the breakdown.
Kambula Group A was recorded three times this month. All four lionesses were at Marthly Crossing on the 11th. Just the two cubs were at the Broken Dam on the 12th. The final sighting of these four was on the 25th, when they were at the Parking Bay. We expect the mothers will come into oestrus soon, at which point the dynamics might shift to accommodate the protection of the cubs, while still mating.
Kambula Group B (four young males, and one sub-adult female), continue to move as a group of five. They were seen four times this month. The first time they were seen was at Manyelethi Crossing on the 12th. The group moved far north and were at 4-Ways Crossing on the 14th. They were north of Matshapiri Dam on the 15th.
Kambula Group C were recorded on 26 days this month. In 12 sightings, they were in the company of the Ndhzenga males. Three records were gleaned of females mating with these males. With this pride, it has become common to see lionesses alone, as well as in groups as large as eight individuals. Kapen Open Area, where the lioness gave birth at the end of last month, has remained zoned, as a result we will have to wait until January before we can give an update on the newest editions. It is worth noting that lionesses were seen in that area on the 12th, and 22nd, a good sign that they might still be keeping cubs in that area. The furthest south members of this group were seen was at Beaumont’s Camp on the 10th, when four females were with two of the Ndhzenga males. The furthest north four members were Sand Pit Crossing on the 8th.