Day 97 (Feb 5th)Part 1.As promised, we decided to drive to Olifants today, as we realised we hadn't been there since the beginning of December when we went to meet Carolv.
We set off at 6am, and we were through the gate by 6.20.
Like yesterday, sightings were very scarce to start off with, and we had almost reached Rhidonda Pan before we saw three Impala rams.
The now resident Hippo and two Egyptian Geese were there, but we couldn't spot anything else, so carried on towards Letaba.
Near Nhlanganini we saw a lovley Kori Bustard, though he was a bit shy, and insisted on staying in the long grass.
Then one of the highlights of the day was a small breeding herd of Ellies, which was near enough to see clearly, but far enough away for my personal comfort!!
They were drinking thirstily from the river and seemed a very relaxed happy little group. We spent some quality time with them, before they set off to their next port of call, as did we!!
As we approached the Letaba crossroads we saw a huge herd of Impala and mixed in with them were quite a few Zebra..........which made such a lovely scene.
We turned right towards Olifants and at the first bridge we saw Mommy Waterbuck with her baba............so cute!! They were both drinking from what is usually a dry river bed, but now has water flowing through it after the recent floods.
We could see a few Hippo in the river as we got near to the Olifants turning, but decided to investigate further, on the return journey.
Olifants was really quiet, with hardly anyone about, so we made our way to the restaurant, for a toastie and coffee. Both I'm glad to say were hot and tasty, and delivered with a smile.............well done Olifants.
We left feeling full and satisfied and made our way down to the viewing area, where we could see loads of Hippos, who were grunting for all they were worth.
Then came a real treat..............a Green Winged Pytilia landed in the bush in front of us. Sadly I wasn't quick enough for a photo, but what a great sighting that was!!!
We also saw Waterbuck and Impala on the opposite side of the river, and a few Yellow-Billed Storks wading in the shallow water.
The river level was maybe a bit more than the last time we hsd visited, but not really very high...........definitely not like the Letaba or Shingwedzi in recent weeks.
We got chatting to a charming Saffie couple from Wilderness, who were waiting to check in, and then it was time for the return journey back to Phala Gate.
To be continued..............
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
the grasshopper 
my last TR 
...they may be harmless but must stay out of the car. 
