Nature is an eccentric place where wildlife often breaks free from the documented textbook behaviour and leaves us feeling somewhat bewildered. Just when we think we understand a species, its physical markings and behaviour; you stumble across an anomaly.
Marius Zeilinga, a game ranger from Umkumbe Safari Lodge, stumbled across a zebra with unusual markings on its forehead. Zebras have unique markings, akin to that of a human fingerprint. Their markings generally have a similar pattern but Marius discovered a zebra with distinct concentric circles on its forehead.
A baboon established his throne on a decaying tree and made guests question whether lions truly are the kings of the jungle. This baboon certainly wanted the title of king!
The ravenous raptors of the Sabi Sand were caught in the midst of their feasting. A Wahlberg’s eagle, with its delightful rufous colouring, was seen dining on a snake. The Wahlberg’s eagle is often near water and preys on snakes, reptiles and small mammals. A bateleur eagle was spotted smashing a terrapin and enjoying the meaty delights hiding beneath its shell. Seeing it devour a terrapin was quite unusual as it normally targets snakes, small birds and mammals.
While guests were enjoying a sundowner session a clan of hyena strolled past. They were probably on the move in search of a kill to steal. This is definitely not behaviour that deviates from the norm, but it made for an exciting sighting !
The rule of the wild is – never tried to figure it out !
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