SANParks.org Forums

@GregM-W:

SANParks has a policy of reintroducing the wildlife species which would have occurred historically and naturally in an area. There is very little evidence of elephants in this area in historic references. Elephants would probably have moved through the area, inhabiting mainly the riverine thicket areas as they moved, but would probably not have been permanently resident in the area. Hence, we will not introduce elephants. I trust this provides the clarity you were seeking.

Regards,
Fayroush Ludick - Regional Communications Manager

Greetings All

I hope everyone had a great Easter Weekend. The park recieved over 50mm of rain and has greened up remarkably quickly.

With the school holidays all the activities have been busy. On most nights we got to see Aardwolf and a record of 6 in one evening. We have also had 5 sightings of Small Spotted Cat/Black Footed Cat. It is supprising how few people know such a thing exists, just shows what a good sighting it is. I also had 3 quick sightings of Brown Hyena.

The cheetah tracking is good as normal. Juba (female cheetah) caught a kudu calf next to the main road, causing a very rare occurrence in MZNP, Traffic jam. The cheetah have been catching mainly kudu calves over the last month. Juba spent alot of time above the camp watching the guests walk past on the Black Eagle Trail.

I have been doing many morning walks and i must say it is the way to explore the park. The sightings are good, but you get to see the small things which are just as fasinating as the big stuff.

Two pics of Locusts supplied by a guest.



Brown Hooded Kingfisher


Cheers for now

WoW Michael!!! Really exciting about the blackfooted cat sightings I would love to see one of those -- and an aardwolf as well. Both very high on my wish list.

Thanks Fayroush. Will the two mountain cabins be fenced with the introduction of lion?

No, the mountain cottages have not been fenced, neither will the guest house be.

I fully agree with Arks' excitement! 5 sightings of black footed cat!!!! Be honest people, if you look for the award "sighting of the year", look no further. Those ARE the sightings of the year. No competition!

Man, on my next visit to MZNP there is no way a night will pass without me doing a nightdrive.

Stunning news!!!

Knowing Brummie's luck they will have gone on holiday when we arrive in August.

AND no brandy pudding to cheer me up