K2021 2022

ISSUE 18 SUMMER 2021/22

ISSN: 2522-3674

TOP

11

amateur s h photograp! e id s in

Solitude at

SABLE HIDE DOVES

KNP HISTORY:

– symbols of peace 22018

9 772522 367008

Olifants – the camp with the best view

ANTARES

Bush Camp & Safaris

R65.00 (VAT incl)

Conservation project: Research with a sting! ••

Give us a call to make it permanent +27 (0)15 590 7530

SETTING Welcome to the Summer 2021 issue of

“Whilst celebrating culture, wildlife and adventure, always expect something new out of Africa.”

T

he African bush is lush and green, baby antelope plentiful, the welcoming sound of the woodlands kingfisher is heard everywhere, and the hospitality industry in South Africa is recovering after international travel bans have been lifted following the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic – many of our regular international visitors are welcomed back with open arms. All in all, what a wonderful time to be in the Kruger Lowveld of South Africa!

Whilst celebrating culture, wildlife and adventure, always expect something new out of Africa. South Africa’s first commercial 360-degree cinema is an experience not to be missed when visiting the Kruger Station at Skukuza in the Kruger National Park. Read all about this new item for your bucket list on page 8.

And we cannot think about new things if we don’t savour the old. After all – the old and bygone is what forms character and guides our destination for the future. Take a trip down memory lane with Pieter Viljoen (Snr)’s first visit to the Greater Kruger on page 13.

Our Amateur Photo Competition attracted the most amazing entries for this round’s theme: Kruger Park Sightings: Self-drive, Camps & Hides. With each summer competition with this theme, the entries just get better and better, and the winning choices more and more difficult for the executive team. Go to page 76 to see the TOP 11 winners selected.

Speaking of photography, our regular expert contributors Roger and Pat de la Harpe revisited the Kruger – and specifically Jock Safari Lodge with a 6 000ha private concession. In combination with its rich cultural heritage, an authentic Jock Safari is any avid photographer’s dream and surely on many a bucket list! Read about their experience on page 91.

This issue of KRUGER MAGAZINE was such a pleasure to put together. We hope you enjoy reading this festive edition as much as we enjoyed compiling it!

I ='N & ,!&I,+ I* ,D

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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THE WORLD-RENOWNED

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

I

s one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of nearly two million hectares (20 000km²) in the province of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in the north-east of South Africa.

It extends 360km from north to south and 65km from east to west.

It became South Africa’s first National Park in 1926. In 1993, fences between Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) and the Kruger National Park were removed to encourage wildlife migration and the Greater Kruger National Park was born.

ZIMBABWE MOZAMBIQUE LIMPOPO BOTSWANA Pretoria GAUTENG

NAMIBIA

NORTH WEST

Nelspruit MPUMALANGA

FREE STATE Bloemfontein NORTHERN CAPE

LESOTHO

East London Cape Town

2

WESTERN CAPE

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

Port Elizabeth

eSWATINI

KWAZULUNATAL

EASTERN CAPE

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Komatipoort

Durban

INDIAN OCEAN

ZIMBABWE

24

MOZAMBIQUE 10

Pafuri Gate

37

Punda Maria

Pafuri

Gate 15

Main Camps

21

Punda Maria Gate

3 3

Pafuri Point of Entry

Other camps

Babalala

LIMPOPO

Camping

27

Sirheni

Picnic spots Airport

Shingwedzi

Tar road

Bateleur

60

Kruger National Park

Mopani Mooiplaas

Giriyondo Border Post

13

Greater Kruger National Park

Boulders

16

24

Tsendze

Makhadzi

19

Shimuwini

55

Phalaborwa Gate

Olifants

47

7

24

Balule G.R.

Letaba

Balule

Roodewal

Timbavati

Timbavati Maroela G.R.

47

Klaserie Umbabat N.R. N.R.

Tamboti

44

Satara Thornybush G.R. Orpen Gwalagwala Ngala 5 N’wanetsi 41 G.R. Muzandzeni 20 Orpen Talamati Gate Matumi Manyeleti G.R. Hamiltons Imbali Hoyo Hoyo Nhlanguleni

Sabi Sands G.R.

MPUMALANGA

Tshokwana

Skukuza Paul Kruger Gate 32

35

Jock

Pretoriuskop

Nelspruit

Ngongoni

Afsaal

Berg-en-Dal 18

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

46 Mlondozi

Lower Sabie 26

9

8

35

4

17

Numbi Gate

31

Nkhuhlu

45

Hazyview

4

13

Phabeni Gate

36

92

Biyamiti Bushwise Lukimbi

Marloth Park Bulhala

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Malelane Gate Malelane

Crocodile Bridge Elephant Walk

Crocodile Bridge Gate Komatipoort

28 38 For your KRUGER MAGAZIN NE digital subscription visit

http://krugermagazine.zinioapps.com or download our KRUGER MAGAZINE APP

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

Contents UPFRONT_

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Research with a sting!

46

Doves – symbols of peace

56

Ranger Diaries: A busy month in

1

Setting the scene

7

From the Publisher’s pen

8

Bush Telegraph

66

Weeping boer-bean

My first visit

76

Top 11 amateur photographs

91

Wildlife photography: Kruger revisited

12

REGULARS & FEATURES_

February 1996

100

KNP History: Olifants – the camp with the best view

114

Antares Bush Camp & Safaris

18

Solitude at Sable Hide

123

The grey duiker – quaint and omnipresent

28

Genets – poetry in motion

128

Favourite spots

Our choice for the cover photo was an entry in our Summer Favourite Spots Competition. November is the month for many new babies in the Kruger National Park, and this photograph of a baby chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) was so cute, we just had to use it.

A newborn will cling to its mother’s chest and stay close to mom for protection. Baby baboons love to play and are quite entertaining to watch, so next time you come across a troop of chacma baboons, spend some time watching them interact within the troop. Chacma baboons are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, and its average lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Read about Ruan Minnaar’s Favourite Spot on page 132.

Photo © Ruan Minnaar

COVER READS_ 76 18 Solitude at Sable Hide

100

KNP History: Olifants – the camp with the best view

38 Research with a sting!

46 Doves – symbols of peace

TOP 11 amateur photographs

114

Antares Bush Camp & Safaris

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

5

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S PEN

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Publisher: Pat Botha Editor: Quintus Strauss

Pat Botha

PRODUCTION TEAM Erika Alberts Meldt van der Spuy Aletta Pretorius-Thiart Ronelle Oosthuizen Martin Botha Tanya Lacey LAYOUT & DESIGN Carmen le Roux EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Pat Botha Quintus Strauss Pieter Viljoen (Snr) Dr Ian Whyte Robin Cook Dr Michelle Henley Ralf Kalwa Nick Zambatis Deon Kelbrick Roger de la Harpe Joep Stevens Dr SCJ Joubert Shaun Etsebeth Ruan Minnaar Zies van Zyl ADVERTISING SALES Pat Botha +27 (0)76 077 7035 pat@mlpmedia.co.za Quintus Strauss +27 (0)72 512 3589 quintus@mlpmedia.co.za ACCOUNTS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Financial Director: Pat Botha +27 (0)76 077 7035 pat@mlpmedia.co.za INTEGRATED COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES Managing Director: Erika Alberts erika@mlpmedia.co.za PRINTING CTP Printers Cape Town | +27 (0)21 929 6200 DISTRIBUTION On The Dot – a Division of Media 24 (Pty)Ltd +27 (0)21 929 2746

MLP Media is kind to the environment

Quintus Strauss

W

hen we announced our KRUGER BIRD CHALLENGE – which aims to fund the production and publishing of our regular Conservation Project articles – we were both

excited and hopeful. Never would we have guessed that it would be so popular! The feedback on our Facebook group from those who entered is most inspiring. So, a huge thank you from us and know that every entrant’s participation will contribute to funding the current and future conservation projects we showcase in KRUGER MAGAZINE. These men and women do tremendous work, often without anyone knowing about them – we are proud to offer them a media platform!

Over the past three months, we were blessed in abundance – grateful for our health, new ventures to look forward to in 2022, and that our KRUGER MAGAZINE is on its 18th issue – and still going strong! But what we are most grateful for is our advertiser partners – throughout the past two years with the devastating effect the COVID-19 pandemic had (and in many cases still has), you stood by us, honouring your commitments, and this made it possible for us to keep on track with planned seasonal printed issues of the KRUGER MAGAZINE. So, in closing the book on 2021, we dedicate this 18th issue of KRUGER MAGAZINE to everyone that supports us – readers, competition entrants, active Facebook group members, sponsors, advertisers and last but not least our expert contributors – we salute you all! May your festive season be blessed and surrounded by family and friends.

To our Executive team – a big hug and a huge thank you!

We wish you all a merry festive season and a prosperous 2022.

Enjoy this issue of KRUGER MAGAZINE.

I ='N & ,!&I,+ I* ,D Disclaimer: The KRUGER MAGAZINE is an independent publication published by MLP Media (Pty) Ltd. Expressions of opinion, claims and statements of supposed facts do not necessarily reflect the views of MLP Media.

While every effort is made to report accurately, MLP Media does not accept any liability with regard to any statement, fact or recommendation made in this publication. References used by contributors are available upon request. The material in this publication may not be reproduced, or otherwise used without the prior written permission by MLP Media and/or the copyright holder. We strive to credit all written and photographic material accordingly.

For any comments or suggestions, please e-mail: media@mlpmedia.co.za

Published quarterly by MLP Media (Pty) Ltd Copyright: MLP Media (Pty) Ltd

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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BUSH TELEGRAPH – KRUGER 360 CINEMA

/69+)6 '-2)1% SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST COMMERCIAL

360-DEGREE CINEMA

Watch this! Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/FW1aI7R8wK0 to catch a glimpse!

Brand new KNP attraction now open! ruger 360 Cinema, situated at the Kruger Station, is like stepping into a giant pair of virtualreality goggles! The cinema is built like a cylinder with a 360-degree wrap-around screen that gives guests an immersive viewing experience no matter which way they are facing. Viewers sit on chairs that swivel and rotate to give them the full 360-degree experience.

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

Experience the relocation of rhino and get up close to wild animals in our double feature, Rewild and The Big 5, followed by an immersion of the skies in a space safari.

It’s an experience not to be missed. The shows run every hour from 9h00 in the morning with the last show at 19h00 in the evening.

Sold on this unique experience in the heart of the bush?

You can buy your ticket on arrival at the Kruger Station at the Grab and Go retail counter. If you are not sure where to find it, just ask any of our staff on site who will gladly assist.

BUSH TELEGRAPH – KRUGER 360 CINEMA

Kruger Station is the new lifestyle precinct that offers several culinary experiences and edutainment facilities, including the 3638 Restaurant – named after the number of the historical locomotive that is permanently located at the historic Kruger Park station.

Kruger Station caters for both overnight and day visitors, offering everything from family dining to grab-and-go.

With a focus on telling the history of rail and the Kruger in general, the Kruger Station offers a 360-degree cinema and storytelling venue that will narrate the Kruger Story in audio visual form. This is the first commercial 360-degree cinema in South Africa. The Station precinct also has a children’s play area, deli, coffee and ice cream bar, a casual dining area and a bar area.

Kruger Station’s safety standards and prevention of the spread of COVID-19 operates at the highest level.

The safety of staff and guests is top priority. The required PPE has been implemented and a full programme has been established with hygiene companies, assuring sanitary and hygiene protocols are adhered to. Kruger Station ensures zero tolerance in the fight against COVID-19.

For more information contact info@krugerstation.com or visit www.krugerstation.com

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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MY FIRST VISIT TO GREATER KRUGER

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros).

Colour slide photo.

MY FIRST VISIT TO GREATER KRUGER

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

Image © Vector Tradition

Pieter Viljoen’s colour slide photos from the 80s and 90s

T

oday I have to confess: I have an addiction. I am addicted to the beautiful Kruger National Park. Luckily a lot of the readers have the Pieter Viljoen (Snr) same problem!

I was a young boy when I started visiting the Park with my parents in the 50s. We visited the Park every year for the July school holidays and it was always one of my favourite times of the year. The camps used to have a large communal fire in the evenings with braais available. Everybody sat in a large circle around the fire. Here new friends were made and all the sightings of the day were discussed. I could not wait for the evenings to hear all the amazing stories.

Satara was the favourite camp and I remember that my father could not wait to get to the Timbavati picnic site to buy the sweetest pawpaws in the world from a man working there. He apparently grew them at his home about hundred meters from the picnic site.

Tree squirrel or Smith’s bush squirrel (Paraxerus cepapi) and impala lily (Adenium multiflorum).

“I am addicted to the beautiful Kruger National Park.”

My parents did not actually braai regularly, but I remember my mom cooking a full supper in a pressure cooker on a paraffin primus stove. The meat was at the bottom with three triangular pots that fitted on top of the meat with vegetables. As we would say in Afrikaans: ‘Vleis, rys en aartappels.’

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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MY FIRST VISIT TO GREATER KRUGER

African bush elephant (Loxodonto africana).

White-bellied sunbird (Cinnyris talatala) and Cape honeysuckle (Tecoma capensis).

Through the years I visited the Park on a regular basis and have fond memories of very good times with my family and friends. My three children are now grownups with families of their own, and all of them also love the Park.

“Magnificent trees grow along all the rivers and streams in the Park.”

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

It is funny how your game viewing needs change over time. In the beginning the Big Five was priority no. 1. Later I developed a liking for all the other animals. Then I became a birdwatcher. Now I am also a nemophilist (one who loves the beauty of forests and trees). There are amazing trees in the Kruger Park and one of my favourite tree spots is Pafuri with its baobab, njala berry (mashatu), leadwood, sycamore fig and fever trees.

Magnificent trees grow along all the rivers and streams in the Park. Another favourite spot is on the S30 just about 2km from the H12. On a little turnoff to the Sabie River, there is a group of very big trees. One huge jackalberry, a large group of Bushveld Natal mahogany and a very large sausage tree. This is my happy place in the Kruger Park and I make a point of always stopping there to admire and greet those trees.

MY FIRST VISIT TO GREATER KRUGER Taking photos in the old days is a story on its own.

I can remember my parents had a Brownie box camera. The photos were black and white and all the animals were just tiny dots in the middle of the photo. Definitely not ideal for wildlife photography. In my early 20s I bought myself a Yashica 35mm camera. It was a nice camera that took clear photos. Storage was a bit of a problem, and the fact that to share the slides properly with friends and family, you had to view them through a slide projector on a screen. I still have about 8 000 slides neatly labelled and filed in drawers that hold 500 slides each. In the beginning the films were either Agfa or Kodak. Later, Fuji came with very good Provia and Velvia colour slide films. They were all slow films that did not allow for action photography and with manual focus it was virtually impossible.

My second camera was a very reliable Pentax K1000. I had it for years. Then followed a Chinnon and then a Pentax Z1 35mm auto focus. I just loved that camera.

Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus).

I added another Pentax Z1 camera so that I did not have to change lenses. The lenses were a 50x300mm Pentax lens, a 28x300mm Tamron lens and a 100x500mm Vivitar lens.

All the photos in this article were taken with these cameras and lenses in the 80s and 90s.

Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger).

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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MY FIRST VISIT TO GREATER KRUGER

Those were the days of heavy cameras and lots of films and bags. Nowadays I travel light with a Canon Powershot SX60HS camera. I find it sufficient for my purpose of telling stories through my photos. I hope to post some good photos and stories on the KRUGER MAGAZINE group on Facebook in the near future.

My son, Pieter J. Viljoen, is now an avid photographer with proper digital equipment.

You probably enjoyed his amazing photo series in the Autumn 2021 KRUGER MAGAZINE of the famous leopard impala kill sighting we had last year.

Pieter Viljoen (Snr) 16

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

Solitude at SABLE HIDE

by Pat Botha | Photos © Quintus Strauss unless otherwise indicated

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

he Kruger National Park (KNP) offers a vast selection of accommodation – rustic bush camps with no electricity for the adventurous campers with their own solar equipment, camping areas with all the amenities for those that prefer more luxury, safari tents with communal amenities (one way of making new friends), bungalows with or without kitchenettes, four- to eightsleeper cottages, and even the larger guest houses for families and groups, complete with extras like private braai areas and DStv. But if you really want to experience a night to remember, you just have to book an overnight stay at one of the two overnight hides the KNP has to offer.

One of them being Sable Hide, situated on the H9 about 8km from he Phalaborwa Gate – a bird hide by day that transforms into a primitive, self-catering overnight dwelling by night, where you can truly experience the Park’s nightlife first-hand.

“If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.”

(John Hemingway)

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CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

Sable Hide overlooks the Sable Dam, which is a favourite last stop for most guests before they exit the Park. Here an abundance of birds and animals can be spotted as they come for a late afternoon drink. There are plenty of bird species, like at most dams, making it a favourite spot for birders and bird photographers. Warthogs will head for their burrows and baboons seek a place for the night after their last drink at the dam.

“A favourite last stop for most guests before they exit the Park.”

Sable Hide during the day.

Elephant (Loxodonta africana) passing the hide.

Photo © Lisl Moolman

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

Gorgeous sunsets at Sable Hide.

Dos and don’ts for Sable Hide.

Elephant with baby. Photo © Lisl Moolman Leopard (Panthera pardus).

Photo © Lisl Moolman

In the evening hippo emerge from the water, often walking several kilometres away to graze, giraffe come for a drink before settling down while many antelope continue feeding around the dam.

Look out for genets and civets because they do most of their hunting before midnight.

In the small hours of the night, you may hear and see lion and hyaena on the hunt but many other animals, including buffalo, wildebeest and kudu, may continue to feed and come for a drink of water. Bush babies can get quite noisy around the hide!

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CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

“A truly adventurous and wonderous primitive, close-to-nature Bushveld experience.”

Beds, ready for sleep.

When booking for a night at Sable Hide, the hide becomes your home for the night half an hour prior to gate closing time. The hide provides for a minimum of two and a maximum of nine guests, with the sleeping units consisting of wooden

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structures that fold down to construct a light bed base with mattress and are folded back inside the wall of the hide during the day. If you require bedding, it can be obtained at Phalaborwa Gate Reception and consists of a pillow and blanket, sheet and pillowcase,

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

as well as a mosquito net.

You will also receive a braai grid and one or two strong flashlights. The rest must be brought along, including firewood, crockery and cutlery, drinking water and food. We suggest you also bring more of your own lighting.

CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

The living area outside and at the back of the hide has a boma with braai facilities and an environmentally-friendly toilet. Upon arrival, your key obtained from Reception will unlock this back area where you will also park your vehicle.

Be sure to lock the gate after entering to ensure safety.

This is your safe area for the night.

Only the very perimeter of the facility is fenced, and guests are not allowed to leave the enclosure during the night. There is no electricity or cell phone signal, making for a truly adventurous and wonderous primitive, close-tonature Bushveld experience.

Boiling water for coffee on the open fire.

Linger alongside the fire after dinner to take in the thousands of stars in the night sky, the silence and the occasional grunt from resident hippos. Enjoy peaceful solitude with your favourite people around you.

When it is time for bed, extinguish your fire and enter the hide for a good night’s sleep – if you are not woken by the occasional roar of a lion or leopard, and the grunts from antelope in your immediate vicinity!

Spotting wildlife with a spotlight at night.

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CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus).

Photo © Lisl Moolman

With the nearest facilities kilometres away, and you already being in the Park way before the gates open, early mornings are breathtaking, and animals start arriving in abundance. The fish eagle will be your wake-up call, that is, if the woodlands kingfisher isn’t first to wake you. Large herds of elephant – some of the current large tuskers too – as well as herds of buffalo, hippo, crocodile and big cats are frequently seen. Do not be surprised if you even spot a pack of wild dogs here, as early dawn is prime hunting time for wild dogs. It is also an active time for the diurnal serval.

Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) bulls drinking at Sable Dam. Photo © Lisl Moolman

African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer).

Photo © Lisl Moolman

“Early mornings are breathtaking, and animals start arriving in abundance.”

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

CAMPS OF KRUGER – SABLE HIDE

Leopard with a warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) kill.

Photo © Lisl Moolman

Southern giraffe (Giraffa giraffa) drinking.

Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger).

Lioness (Panthera leo) with cubs.

At daybreak hyaenas may return to their dens while leopard are also more active for the first few hours of daylight before finding a branch to rest on. Antelope and all kinds of smaller mammals also frequent this dam.

Photo © Lisl Moolman

Since most people combine one night’s stay at Sable Hide with other stays inside the KNP, pack up and hand in your bedding at Phalaborwa reception, and head to your next destination.

Once in one of the busier camps, you will think back on that one night at Sable Hide, a true African experience like few other where you could savour the solitude and uniqueness of that special night.

To book call Phalaborwa Gate Reception on +27 (0)13 735 3547 or go to www.sanparks.org

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SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

GENETS Poetry in motion

by Ian Whyte

ecause of the many similarities that genets share with felines (Felidae), you could be excused for believing that they were members of the cat family. Like cats, they have soft silky fur, paws which resemble those of cats, and retractable claws. Their demeanour is cat-like too – rather shy and retiring, and ultra-stealthy in their hunting techniques.

Prey selection is also similar to the smaller cat species. But despite these shared characteristics, they are in fact placed in the family Viverridae which, rather surprisingly, means their closest relatives are civets and mongooses.

Photo © MG Kuijpers

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

SPECIES ID ѩ MAMMALS

« Dr Ian Whyte is an independent environmental consultant who retired from SANParks in 2007. He was previously engaged in full-time wildlife research in the Kruger National Park from 1970-2007. At the time of retirement, he was responsible for the coordination of all research projects pertaining to

elephant, buffalo and other large herbivores and rare antelope. He is a member of the IUCN’s Species Survival Commission’s African Elephant Specialist Group.

He has co-authored two field guides to the birds of the Kruger National Park and in 2020, released his latest book about his life and work in the KNP.

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS The phylogenetic relationships between the various species of genet seem to be still a little unclear. Up to 15 species in the genus Genetta have been described, many of which have very limited distributions, which are determined by their specialised habitat requirements. Many sub-species have also been described, but not all are currently accepted.

All genets are indigenous to Africa, but one, known as the common genet (a sub-species of the small-spotted genet), was introduced from the Maghreb region of north Africa to southwestern Europe as much as 1 500 years ago, and has spread to Portugal, Spain, southern France and Italy.

Two species are known to occur in South Africa, including the Kruger National Park, namely the small-spotted genet (Genetta genetta) and the largespotted genet (Genetta tigrina).

This latter species is also known as the rusty-spotted genet.

Small-spotted genet (Genetta genetta). Photo © Alta Oosthuizen

Large-spotted genet (Genetta tigrina).

Photo © Martin

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

A third proposed species (the Cape genet), which occurs in the fynbos region of the Cape, is now considered to be a race of the large-spotted.

In general terms, smallspotteds prefer more arid environments and occur widely across the drier western parts of South Africa. However, it is absent from the extremely arid areas of the West Coast and the moist eastern coastal strip.

Large-spotteds occur along the east coast from the Western Cape to Mozambique and in the Bushveld regions of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana and the Caprivi Strip. There is a large area of overlap (including the Kruger National Park) where the two species co-exist.

SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

Small-spotted genet – note the white tip at the end of its tail.

Photo © Asfloro

Large-spotted genet – note the black tip at the end of its tail.

Photo © Eco View

In the Kruger, both species are relatively common throughout, though there is some evidence that large-spotteds are more common in the mopani vegetation types in the north, while small-spotteds are more common in the south.

Both species have retractable claws that allow them to be completely at home in trees.

Large-spotteds favour well wooded habitats with trees and are accomplished climbers. They can leap considerable distances and can jump up to four metres between the branches of neighbouring trees. They are probably more at home in trees than the lesser-spotteds as this latter species may even be found in some habitats that are devoid of trees. As a result, they are considered to be terrestrial rather than arboreal. In these habitats they shelter and breed in rock crevices, old aardvark and springhare burrows, and hollow logs.

Given the similarity of the two species, it comes as a bit of a surprise that they can co-exist in the same habitats. Their size, habits and hunting techniques are all very similar and they even look similar, and it leads you to wonder what separates them ecologically?

They are very similar in both size and shape, both being long and slender with shortish legs, and both being spotted with

many black rings around their long tails. In both, the tail is the same length as the body. But the most conspicuous difference between them is the prominent white tip of the small-spotted’s tail. Its body is grey with small solid black spots, while the large-spotted’s general body colour is reddish with large rusty, black rimmed spots on its upper back. The tip of the large-spotted’s tail is black.

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SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

Small-spotted genet looking for food at night.

Photo © Aitor

Generally, the small-spotted (at up to 2.6 kg) is slightly smaller than the large-spotted (up to 3.2 kg), and the skull is less robust. These probably reflect in the prey selection of the two species, though here also, there is considerable overlap. The major proportion of items in the diet of both species is comprised of insects and rodents of many different species, but they also will take almost anything they can overpower. They may take small amounts of carrion. In the order of importance in the make-up of their diet, lesserspotteds take mainly insects, followed by rats and mice, birds and reptiles. Birds up to the size of doves and the young of guineafowl and spurfowl are taken. Bats may also occasionally be taken.

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Large-spotted’s diet is also comprised mainly of rodents and insects and they perhaps take a larger proportion of birds. Reptiles, frogs, many insects, spiders, scorpions, millipedes, and even fish and fruits are eaten.

Scavenging at night.

Photo © Ivan Kuzmin

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“They are completely nocturnal and are seldom seen during daylight.”

SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

For both species, there is a marked seasonal shift in the prey that is taken. In the warmer, wetter summer months, insects and other invertebrates feature prominently, but as the drier winter sets in, insect abundance declines and there is a shift towards rodents and birds. The shift is necessary as they are opportunistic hunters and eat what they can catch.

This principle applies to most predators, even lions.

Both species are solitary. Any larger group will either be a female and her most recent young, or a pair attracted to each other for mating. They are completely nocturnal and are seldom seen during daylight.

Photo © Vaclav

They emerge from their resting places to hunt about two hours after sunset. The hunting technique is ‘stalk and pounce’, and they use their teeth and retractable claws to seize their prey. Once captured, the prey is held in the claws

Watch this! Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/ANx9nvK-pRE to watch the video: ‘Secret Creatures: Genet’. Published by Lion Mountain TV.

of the forefeet while it bites repeatedly until the victim is subdued. With bigger prey, like the larger rodents, the genet will roll onto its side and, while holding the prey in the teeth and fore claws, will rake and rip its body with its hind claws.

Photo © Hugo

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SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

Genet droppings.

Photo © Jag Images

Genets are strongly territorial, reportedly occupying territories as small as 50 to 100ha. They advertise their presence using scent exuded from glands situated in the anal region. The glands produce a very powerful musky odour. These odours are used mainly as territorial markers but also to convey

A large-spotted genet in one of the camps of KNP. Photo © Alta Oosthuizen

information about breeding status. Interestingly, they will often stand on their front legs to apply the scent to elevated

A baby large-spotted genet.

Photo © Vaclav

“The young are fully weaned at three months and disperse before they are a year old.”

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marking sites on stems of shrubs and robust grasses.

Genets breed in the summer months between September and March. They produce litters of up to five after a gestation time of between 70 and 77 days. Females have two pairs of mammary glands situated on the abdomen. The young are fully weaned at three months and disperse before they are a year old, allowing adult females to produce a new litter each year.

Neither species is considered to be ‘threatened’ and are rated ‘Least Concern’ in the Red Data listings. They are common and widespread, and occur in close proximity with humans, even in some urban habitats. They will often occupy roofs of houses and outbuildings, usually as innocuous and unobtrusive co-habitants. But this familiarity with humans can sometimes come at a price as they can be inveterate raiders of chicken coops!

SPECIES ID ‒ MAMMALS

Small-spotted genet – genets are often seen around lodges.

A large-spotted genet in a tree.

Photo © Pixaterpa

Folklore No references to genets in mystical folklore could be found, but skins and tails are culturally important to the Zulus as they are often used in traditional clothing items. Multiple tails are hung from the belt around the waist, and strips of skin adorn headdresses and are wrapped around the arms and legs. Pieces of skin are sometimes used as charms in stickfights, and some body parts are reportedly used in the treatment of eye ailments.

Being truly nocturnal, genets are seldom seen in the Kruger, the exception being during night drives. When illuminated by a spotlight, their beauty can best be appreciated.

Their slinking movements are lithe and graceful, bringing the saying ‘poetry in motion’ to mind!

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8–

CONSERVATION PROJECT

ation Conserv d by n po sore Project s E’s MAGAZIN KRUGER D BIR KRUGER NGE E L L CHA

African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) utilises trees such as marula (Sclerocarya birrea) for nutrition and may strip bark, break branches or push trees over as they forage.

Photo © Alta Oosthuizen

RESEARCH WITH A

STING!

How African honeybees have been deployed to protect iconic marula trees against elephant impact

by Robin Cook & Dr Michelle Henley

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CONSERVATION PROJECT

lephant impact on large tree species is a contentious and complex topic, with many a scientific debate revolving around the management of elephants as environmental modifiers.

Elephant impact varies in space and time, meaning that different management strategies may be required across the landscapes in which elephants occur.

In the Kruger National Park (KNP), for example, the reduction of waterholes has been used to modify where elephants use the landscape at certain times of the year.

However, individual trees can also be protected against elephant impact, optimally in small or water-saturated protected areas but also in larger reserves, if planned in a spatially explicit manner to preserve desired landscape features.

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CONSERVATION PROJECT

Research into the protection of large iconic trees, which are important for seed production, buffering of climatic effects and habitat creation, has been carried out

by Elephants Alive in the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) of the Greater KNP since 2004.

Elephants Alive’s CEO, Dr Michelle Henley, had been tasked to investigate tree protection methods as part of a collaborative project with South African National Parks. Having already shown how wire-netting (chicken mesh wrapped around a tree’s main stem) could increase the survival rates of large trees, Michelle then initiated the concept of using bees to protect iconic trees. This was based on Dr Lucy King’s research in Kenya, which had clearly shown that African honeybees can be used to protect crops from crop-raiding elephants, thus increasing human-elephant coexistence around protected areas.

Bee swarms being transferred to hives at night (when bees quieter).

Photos © Mike Kendrick

Elephants Alive CEO, Dr Michelle Henley, helps unload beehives to be hung in marula trees.

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Elephants are vulnerable to bee-stings in their eyes, ears and trunks, which appear to be more than enough reason for them to avoid contact with an angry swarm of bees. African honeybees also swarm in large numbers when disturbed, chasing away any unwelcomed visitor that may disturb their beehive.

With the hypothesis that African honeybees could be used to protect trees within the APNR, Michelle contacted a former Honours student of hers, Robin Cook, to drive the project for his master’s degree at Wits University, with Michelle and Lucy as co-supervisors.

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The Jejane Private Nature Reserve (Jejane), which has always been a strong supporter of Elephants Alive’s research activities, kindly agreed to host the project.

Therefore, on a warm summer’s night in December 2015, Elephants Alive, in conjunction with Jejane, initiated the ambitious operation of hanging 50 active beehives in 50 marula trees overnight to test whether African honeybees could be used to protect trees against elephant impact.

In conjunction to these trees, 50 marula trees were wire-netted, as a method versus method comparison, and 50 marula trees were left as control trees (no protection).

CONSERVATION PROJECT

Beehives, hung two metres above the ground, have proven themselves to be successful elephant deterrents when it comes to protecting large marula trees. Photo © Robin Cook

The beehives are hung two metres above the ground, to protect them f rom honey badgers and to ensure that they are at elephant eye-height, offering the tree maximum protection. At the peak of winter, the honeybees are also given artificial pollen and nectar, ensuring that colony numbers remain high and strong during the months when elephants predominantly turn f rom grazing to browsing.

Elephants Alive’s Big Trees Projects Manager, Robin Cook, stands with a newly hung beehive in the Jejane Private Nature Reserve. Photo © Kayla Zoon

Elephants Alive’s Big Trees Projects Manager, Robin Cook, quietly watches bees returning to their beehive with pollen in the Jejane Private Nature Reserve. Photo © Kayla Zoon

For six years, Elephants Alive’s scientific team have methodically collected data to gain a clearer understanding as to how this biological relationship functions, learning new information as the years progress. The project has lived through both wet and

dry years, ranging from high to low bee occupancy levels, providing valuable data as to its effectiveness in the Lowveld system. Elephant impacts to the study trees are annually recorded, allowing the scientists to evaluate effectiveness levels of each method.

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CONSERVATION PROJECT

A beehive stops a bachelor herd of elephant bulls in their tracks. The bulls walked in a semi-circle around the beehive before carrying on along their intended pathway. Photo © Robin Cook

A honeybee – regarded as the most important pollinator on the planet.

Photo © Hennie de Klerk

And after six years, are the beehives working?

The answer is still a resounding ‘yes’. The results show that beehives can decrease tree mortality five-fold, versus trees with no protection. And to date, no marula tree with an active beehive has died from elephant impact.

An elephant bull keeps his distance from an active beehive in Jejane Private Nature Reserve. Photo © Elephants Alive

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Whilst elephants may still feed off trees with empty beehives, the probability of these trees getting pushed over or snapped is far lower in comparison to their wire-netted and control counterparts. Trees that have been wire-netted do have the second highest survival rate, however the wire-net protection effectively prevents barkstripping (a frequent impact type to marula trees) but not the snapping of main stems as a less frequent elephant impact type to this plant species.

CONSERVATION PROJECT

In addition to protecting iconic trees, the beehives produce an incredible pure honey, of which almost 200 litres have been harvested since the commencement of the research. This natural golden honey has been sold to lodges, tourists and locals across the country, giving guests a sweet taste of the Greater KNP.

Elephants Alive sell f reshly harvested honey from the beehives, allowing tourists to taste a unique blend of Bushveld honey. Photo © Robin Cook

The honey has also been used

by Dr Joel Alves of WildScapes Veterinary & Conservation Services as an anti-septic treatment for wounded animals within the surrounding landscape. It is humbling to see the bees’ hard-made honey being used to treat multiple species of animals, including wild dogs, rhino and elephants. Nature always has the answer!

The results suggest that beehives can be an efficient tree protection method in the Greater KNP, if applied in a spatially explicit way and used on iconic adult trees, thereby ensuring the aesthetic carrying capacity of the landscape.

The method, therefore, can be added to the toolbox of options for managers when mitigating elephant impact on large trees.

Thank you!

Natural Bushveld honey is applied to a snare wound on a spotted hyaena by Dr Joel Alves of WildScapes Veterinary & Conservation Services.

Natural Bushveld honey is applied to a buffalo snare wound by Dr Joel Alves of WildScapes Veterinary & Conservation Services.

Photo © Francois Retief

Photo © Dr Joel Alves

A recently hung BeePak hive protects a marula tree f rom elephant impact.

Photo © Wild Wonderful World

A big thank you goes out to all funders, volunteers and the Jejane Private Nature Reserve for helping Elephants Alive make this project such a success.

For more information contact Robin Cook Email: robincook@elephantsalive.org Web: www.elephantsalive.org

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KRUGER BIRD CHALLENGE

n Yello

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nbi r o H d e w-bill

Bearded woodpec ke

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Martial eagle

ird b y r ta a r e c e

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Fork-tailed d rongo

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Bateleur

Brown-hood

400 species 400 DAYS Are you up for the challenge?

Take part in our Kruger Bird Challenge and see if you can spot 400+ species.

Earn your magnificent medal and certificate prizes!

Join our KRUGER BIRD CHALLENGE Facebook group

For more details on how to register and enter, and for Ts&Cs e-mail subs@mlpmedia.co.za

SPECIES ID ϐ BIRDS

DOVES Symbols of peace

by Ian Whyte

D

ove and pigeon species are all placed in the family Columbidae. In total there are 310 species, and they occur on all continents except those in the polar regions. Africa has been well blessed with doves and pigeons with 33 species to be found on the continent.

Indeed, Africa has been called ‘the land

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of doves’. These include 12 species of pigeons, four green pigeons and 17 doves (including the wood-doves). In South Africa 15 species occur, while in the Kruger National Park (KNP), there are nine.

Due to limited space, the pigeons (African speckled and the African green pigeons) have been excluded from this article.

SPECIES ID ϐ BIRDS

“Africa has been called ‘the land of doves’.”

« Dr Ian Whyte is an independent environmental consultant who retired from SANParks in 2007. He was previously engaged in full-time wildlife research in the Kruger National Park from 1970-2007. At the time of retirement, he was responsible for the coordination of all research projects pertaining to

elephant, buffalo and other large herbivores and rare antelope. He is a member of the IUCN’s Species Survival Commission’s African Elephant Specialist Group.

He has co-authored two field guides to the birds of the Kruger National Park and in 2020, released his latest book about his life and work in the KNP.

Photo © Henk Bogaard

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

“These three are best separated by examining the eyes.”

Red-eyed dove (Streptopelia semitorquata). Photo © Davemontreuil

A similar dove, which is also predominantly grey but lacks the collar, is the laughing dove, which has recently been placed in the genus Spilopelia.

It has a rich rufous chest with a multitude of small black spots.

Two of the smaller doves, the emerald-spotted and the tambourine, are generically placed in Turtur. These are easy to separate as the tambourine has beautiful chestnut wings that contrast strongly with its pure white chest and belly. The last is the Namaqua dove from the genus Oena, and this bird is unmistakable with its long, straight tail.

Af rican mourning collared dove (Streptopelia decipiens).

Note the red eye-ring and the yellow eye with a black pupil.

Photo © Karlos Lomsky

There are three ‘collared’ dove species that all look rather similar. All are mainly grey in colour, and all have a black collar around the back (nape) of the neck. These are all from the genus Streptopelia, and they are the red-eyed, the African mourning collared and the ringnecked doves. Unless calling, these three are best separated by examining the eyes.

The red-eyed, as its name implies, has a small patch of redskin (eye-ring) that surrounds its red eye with a black pupil.

Ring-necked or Cape turtle dove (Streptopelia capicola).

Note the black eye with no red eye-ring.

Photo © Eco View

The African mourning collared also has a red eye patch, but has a prominent yellow eye with a black pupil.

The ring-necked also has a black eye, but lacks the red skin patch.

These three doves have very different calls which, if known, separates them immediately.

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/BobldAyee8E for a sound recording, ‘Doves of southern Africa calls’.

Published by Lynette Rudman.

Two laughing dove squabs.

Photo © Ava Peattie

There are a few traits that are common to all the dove species covered in this article. Nests appear to be ‘badly constructed’, comprising simply a flimsy platform of sticks and rootlets. They look as if they would fall apart even in the gentlest of breezes. But they usually do hold, and the abundance of most of these species attests to this fact. In some species nests may even be re-used for successive broods.

Breeding is seldom seasonal – they will breed at any time of the year according to availability of food. Young

chicks, known as squabs, are altricial and are totally dependent on the adults for food and care. For the first few days, they are fed with a secretion produced in the crop of the adults, known as ‘pigeon milk’, which is rich in fat and protein.

Interestingly, the adults usually refrain from eating for a day or two before hatching, as the squabs must be fed with milk uncontaminated with indigestible seeds.

The young fledglings quickly become independent after

leaving the nest, allowing the adults to produce multiple broods in a season. This allows populations to recover quickly after the decimating effects of droughts.

In territorial displays and courtship, males of all these species (except the wooddoves) undertake what is known as the ‘towering display’ in which they fly steeply upward and then glide back in a wide circle. Doves’ food is comprised mainly of a wide variety of the seeds of grasses and trees, but they may also take small fruits and some insects and termites.

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

Red-eyed dove. Photo © Davemontreuil

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/Kw_6qYmw7tc for sound recordings of the red-eyed dove.

Published by Stories of The Kruger.

“These three doves have very different calls.”

The red-eyed is the largest of the three ‘collared’ doves. It is rather habitat specific, selecting tall trees in riparian areas. In flight it has a white tip to each of its tail feathers which shows as a broad white terminal bar.

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/Kw0NmU2Yxgg for sound recordings of the African mourning collared dove. Published by Stories of The Kruger.

Af rican mourning collared dove. Note the yellow eye.

Photo © Karlos Lomsky

Its call is a six syllabled phrase that has been likened to a repetitive “Gentle Bishop Tutu … Gentle Bishop Tutu” or “You chew tobacco too, you chew tobacco too”.

The African mourning collared dove has been recorded widely in the Kruger, but it is nowhere common.

It is seldom recorded in open savanna, mainly favouring watercourses where tall ana trees (Faidherbia albida) occur. But paradoxically, it is found in some of the Park’s rest camps and picnic areas where their confiding behaviour with humans makes you suspect that they may even have some dependence on us!

This gives the visitor excellent opportunities to observe and study them.

They have characteristic calls – a three syllabled “woo-woo-woo” and a loud descending trill “powrrrrrrr”.

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

Ring-necked dove.

Photo © Jurgens Potgieter

The ring-necked (previously known as the Cape turtle dove) is a very common resident but shows some nomadic movements in drier times.

They are monogamous and territorial. They are multiple brooders with up to five broods reportedly raised in a single year. Incubation takes about 14 days, and the nestling period is 16 to 17 days. Fledglings become independent after another 12 days. From laying to independence thus takes as little as 42 days! Females will feign injuries in a display

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/OtsyPWSLP_8 for sound recordings of the ring-necked dove.

Published by Stories of The Kruger.

to distract a potential predator near the nest.

Their call is likened to “work harder, work harder, …”, and is one of the characteristic sounds of Africa. Their wings often make characteristic whistling sounds in flight.

“A very common resident but shows some nomadic movements in drier times.”

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

Laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis).

Photo © Karlos Lomsky

Laughing doves too are widespread and abundant in the Kruger.

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/T2ninkC-H1k for a sound recording of the laughing dove. Published

by Stories of The Kruger.

Emerald-spotted wood dove (Turtur chalcospilos).

Photo © Henk Bogaard

They have a gentle, but rich chuckling call, which I have heard likened to “I have a duty to do”. They are common in rest camps where they have become well habituated to people.

The emerald-spotted wooddove and the tambourine have very similar calls.

Both have been likened to the gradually descending mournful phrase, “My mother is dead, my father is dead, all my children are dead, and my heart goes du, du, du, du, du…”.

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/iv3vxM8dsQE for a sound recording of the emerald-spotted wooddove. Published by Lynette Rudman.

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“Both have been likened to a gradually descending mournful phrase.”

SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS In the emerald-spotted’s call however, the phrase is a continuous “du, du, du, du, du” while in the tambourine, the call has clear breaks, “du, du, du… du, du, du … du, du, du”, and is slightly lower pitched.

Emerald-spotted wood dove.

Photo © Karlos Lomsky

Once familiar with these differences, the two can easily be separated by their calls.

The emerald-spotted is a very common species in the Kruger and its call is one of the characteristic sounds of the Bushveld. They are not particularly shy and are often seen. They have beautiful emerald green iridescent spots on their wings from which their name is derived.

Tambourine dove (Turtur tympanistria).

Photo © Maniki

“The emerald-spotted is a very common species in the Kruger.”

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/n74vhcYyWoA for a sound recording of the tambourine dove.

Published by Lynette Rudman.

The tambourine dove is a species favouring a more forested environment, and is therefore more common to the west of the Kruger Park in the forested foot slopes of the escarpment, and also in the eastern coastal forests. It is shy and difficult to see. In the Kruger it has a discontinuous distribution limited mainly to the better developed riparian zones along the major rivers, particularly the Crocodile, Sabie and Luvuvhu/Limpopo.

This bird can often be heard at Crooks Corner.

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SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS The Namaqua dove is a species that is more at home in rather arid environments, and it is more common in the drier western parts of the country.

Some appear to be resident in the Kruger, as they may be seen at any time of year. But in some drier years, they undertake a general movement to the east and they can become abundant in the KNP area.

This appears to be a general phenomenon, as some other species, such as the lark-like bunting, red-headed finch, grey-backed sparrow-lark and white-browed sparrow-weaver, follow this strategy.

Male Namaqua dove (Oena capensis).

Photo © Dr Ajay Kumar Singh

Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/4v6aZfruIP0 for a sound recording of the Namaqua dove.

Published by Stories of The Kruger.

Female Namaqua dove.

Photo © Cathy Withers-Clarke

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The Namaqua is the prettiest of our doves and the only one in which the sexes are dimorphic (markedly different), with the male being more colourful with a beautiful black face with a bright red and yellow bill. The female has more traditional dove grey plumage. She too has the long tail but lacks the colourful bill.

SPECIES ID ‒ BIRDS

Laughing doves, KNP. Photo © Paco Como

Doves have long been associated with love and peace. Their calls too are particularly peaceful. But they can be anything but peaceful, especially in ‘scuffles’ associated with territorial defence where males will fight fiercely, beating each other with flailing wings.

Being rather dull in colour and because they are also so common, many people

seldom give them a second glance. But this abundance may be their most appealing feature! Whether you are sitting at a waterhole watching them coming to drink in their droves or sitting in a quiet spot listening to their gentle calls, you realise that they are almost a fundamental part of the Kruger experience.

What would the Kruger be without doves?

“Doves have long been associated with love and peace.”

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RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA

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RANGER DIARIES ѩ MAHLOMETELA

Mahlometela

A busy month in February 1996

by Ralf Kalwa | Photos © Ralf Kalwa unless otherwise indicated

I often get asked “what does a game ranger do”?

This is best illustrated with a review of my diary of February 1996.

« Ralf Kalwa is an Ecological Consultant at Malelane, a position he has held since December 2001. He established Rhengu Environmental Services in the Malelane area and is trails leader for the Lebombo Eco Trail. Prior to holding this position, Ralf

was Manager: IEM: Kruger National Park from 2000-2001 and Senior Section Ranger: Kruger National Park from 1994-2000.

“Every ranger in the Kruger gets a Shangaan name, given to him by his staff and fellow field rangers,” says Ralf. “Mine is Mahlometela… the man who sees everything.”

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2 February Malelane staff repairing the damage to the erosion donga.

Friday 2 February Patrol to the erosion donga and inspect the rehabilitation work.

Stabilisation of the causeway is progressing well. On towards the Ngwenyen block and inspect the water provision at both windmills.

The pasture is window high.

Observe two new sites where erosion and stormwater run-off have damaged the management road. Inform Ben Kruger from the Roads Department. Back to the office and meet with the management of Malelane Citrus Co-op, the Malelane gardening team and Rob Thomson (night-drive student) regarding various issues of concern.

Saturday 3 to Sunday 4 February As part of building neighbour relations, I take members of

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6 February The finished product.

the Leopard Creek Golf Estate to Wolhuter Trails Camp for an informal meeting and some downtime. Return at lunch on Sunday to find that the field rangers have arrested an illegal fisherman.

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Monday 5 February 2.4mm of rain. Inspect the erosion work that will be completed today. Prepare for Sergeant Manhique’s merit assessment. Leave on the motorbike and patrol the

RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA

Steilberg via Berg-en-Dal Camp. The Matjulu waterhole is full and functional. Get a puncture and walk home.

Tuesday 6 February Have an early morning discussion with some field rangers regarding their stay and travel bonuses. Various staff members from Berg-en-Dal Technical Services team arrive for a meeting. Leave to inspect the completion of the erosion structure. Deal with a personal problem of field ranger Enock Mzimba. Leave on a patrol along the Crocodile River and the Mbyamiti tourist road. All windmills are functional.

Members from our sister conservation organisation in the province arrive with 20 brownheaded parrots that were confiscated from a smuggling network. We drive to the Mbyamiti and release them along the riparian zone.

Back to the office to complete some administration. Regional Ranger Louis Olivier and Section Ranger Vic van der Walt arrive to spend the night.

The field rangers arrest five fishermen near Fish Eagle Bend. Contact the police to fetch the perpetrators.

Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 February 16.5mm of rain. Leave early Saturday to Skukuza to attend the new salary scale grading meeting held by the Deputy Director Dick Parris.

African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) at a waterhole in the KNP. Photo © Quintus Strauss

Wednesday 7 February Leave for Skukuza to attend the monthly regional meeting and to complete a number of administrative tasks.

Thursday 8 February Take a day’s leave to visit the dentist and to have my private vehicle serviced.

Arrive back to discover that the field rangers have found an abandoned ground hornbill chick. Contact the veterinarian Dewald Keet and ornithologist, Alan Kemp to collect the bird for the hornbill rehabilitation and reintroduction programme.

Receive a call that four Argentinean tourists have driven their vehicle off the Steilberg. Spend the rest of my off day securing the damaged vehicle and taking care of shaken and bruised guests.

8 February Southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) chick/juvenile.

IUCN conservation status: Vulnerable.

Friday 9 February Leave early for Leopard Creek to confirm the arrangements for the meeting next week. Finalise the recovery of the vehicle that fell down the Steilberg.

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RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA Monday 12 February 12mm of rain. The Technical Manager from Bergen-Dal collects our labour team to assist with maintenance and clean-up operations at the landfill site. The Crocodile River has risen overnight and is in flood. I leave early morning for Twanana near Mopani Camp for the annual rangers’ security meeting.

Tuesday 13 February 7mm rain. Leave after the meeting and arrive back late at Malelane. The Crocodile River is still in flood. Damage has been caused at the Leopard Creek loffelsteen wall. Trees, litter, reeds and some dead animals are being washed downriver.

All gravel roads on the section have now been closed off. The Matjulu, Matjulwane, Mlambane and Mbyamiti Rivers are now in flood.

Wednesday 14 February 37.8mm rain. Patrol to assess damage in and around the section. Take photographs of the flood damage and of the structures on our southern

Rainstorm in the bush.

boundary that were built below the flood line. Paul Kruger and Crocodile Bridge Gates are closed due to flood damage, and I spend time co-ordinating access control at Malelane Gate with some field rangers. Leave for a patrol to the Mlambane to find three illegal immigrants crossing the river. They get swept away trying to cross.

13 February The Matjulu River in flood.

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Fetch some field rangers and we search for them along the western section of the river.

We find tracks on the gravel road and eventually arrest two men, who are handed over to the police in Malelane.

Spent the last hour of the day in discussion with field ranger Phineas Dinda regarding his future in the organisation.

Thursday 15 February 2.8mm rain. Update my logbook records and my ranger diary. Prepare and finalise arrangements for the Leopard Creek meeting tomorrow: send faxes, confirm the speakers and the order of presentations. Field ranger Jeremiah Ndlovu who absconded from his post 12 days ago is located at Satara where he has been working with his old supervisor Johan Steyn.

I report the incident to Regional Ranger Ben Lambrecht and hopefully the situation has now been resolved.

RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA

I inspect the Berg-en-Dal fence and confirm that the floods have caused considerable damage.

The third illegal immigrant is located and handed to the police.

The police did not want to accept the person because he is sick. They only arrest healthy people. My response to this is not for publication.

Complete Sergeant Manhique’s merit assessment and discuss field ranger Malwane’s progress in his new job. Undertake a late afternoon patrol via the Matjulu loop. Discover some dead fish that did not survive the effects of the flood near Matjulu bridge.

A rain gauge – 1mm represents 1 litre of water per square meter.

“The floods have caused considerable damage.”

Friday 16 February 0.6mm rain. Leave early morning for the meeting at Leopard Creek. The meeting is attended by a renowned politician and environmentalist, representatives from Leopard Creek, the Wildlife Society, Dr Andrew Deacon (Kruger National Park) and officials from the provincial conservation organisation.

The theme of the meeting centres around the damage to the riparian zone caused by certain members from the golf estate.

After a heated yet fruitful dialogue we obtain written commitment that the riverine trees will be protected and that all tree lopping and/or removals will be approved in conjunction with the local section ranger.

On my way back I patrol past the Matjulu bridge and observe twelve wild dogs hopping, skipping and jumping across the subsiding river.

Today was a win for conservation!

Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 February 2mm rain. Complete some administrative tasks and take Philip Magale and Joseph Mdlovu to hospital. Both are booked off work. Drive to the Mlambane causeway to assess the fish migration. No deaths are recorded.

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RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA

21 February Malelane staff working at the landfill site recycling all the tins and cans and cleaning up the site.

Monday 19 February Leave early for Matjulwane Rangers Picket. The firebreak road has crumbled in various spots following the floods.

Two causeways require intensive rehabilitation and gabion work. The Tinsimbini causeway that we repaired has survived the onslaught of the rains and floods. The field rangers leave the picket, and it will not be manned until conditions improve. Drive via Afsaal, Mbyamiti Weir and the Mlambane back to the office.

Six wild dogs were seen near the bushveld camp. The Van Graan Dam and Maroela Weir walls remain intact. The dam itself is free of the exotic, alien hyacinth plants.

Tuesday 20 February Drive to Skukuza to complete the personal forms of some of the field rangers.

They have applied for new identification papers, and

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22 to 23 February Regional Ranger Flip Nel and Section Ranger Douw Grobler learning about new plants during our Doispan excursions.

I assist where applicable.

Return and collect my supervisor Sipho Ndlovu. We inspect the new erosion sites and discuss a strategy to repair them with gabions.

Wednesday 21 February The labour team establish

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a vegetable garden that will be used to grow much needed fresh crops for all the staff at Malelane Ranger Station.

Rubble, litter and general waste that were found in and around the station are transported to the landfill and waste collection site near Berg-en-Dal.

RANGER DIARIES ‒ MAHLOMETELA I obtained a sun panel to be used for charging the radios at the ranger picket. We test the unit, and it gets the all clear.

Transport Phineas Dinda and Henry Mbazima to Skukuza Court to testify against five poachers that we arrested earlier this year.

Leave for Doispan to meet up with my fellow section rangers in the region.

The Doispan area is on the Pretoriuskop section, and it was significant to see the impact caused by elephants on the wild teak trees.

Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 February 0.8mm and 1.3mm rain respectively. Complete some administrative tasks and make arrangements for

my upcoming leave. Close more tourist roads due to rain damage and localised flooding. An SANDF vehicle ignores one of the closed roads and drives off the Mlambane low-level causeway and gets stuck. I issue the transgressors with a hefty fine. Two lion cubs and their mother spend the weekend around the house.

Thursday 22 to Friday 23 February Our Regional Ranger Flip Nel initiated a bi-monthly get together on each of our sections for two days to get us to share information on our sections, especially the biodiversity each landscape has to offer.

Apart from improving our esprit de corps it allows us to familiarise ourselves with new plants, birds, insects and the challenges faced by our fellow rangers.

The track of a leopard (Panthera pardus) after rain.

“I issue the transgressors with a hefty fine.”

24 to 25 February The SANDF vehicle that drove off the Mlambane bridge.

Monday 25 February Conduct a shooting exercise behind the staff quarters with all the field rangers. The average is above 75% and three rangers achieve a 90% success rate. Well done. This is vast improvement on previous exercises. Discuss my leave arrangements with Sergeant Manhique and go on annual leave.

Overall, a busy month.

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The One-Stop Academy right in the bush!

Tourism Safari Guide

Conservation Practitioner

Wildlife Practitioner

Nature / Safari Guide

Conservation Practice

Wildlife Management

Survival – Bush Craft

Game Ranger

Veld Management

Tracking Animals I

Tracking II Dangerous Game Game Capture

Dangerous Game I

Guiding II Dangerous Game

Trails Guide D/Game

Field Ranger I

Field Ranger II & III

Wildlife Health Care

Wildlife Photography

Anti-Poaching Manager

Game Harvesting

Wilderness 1st Aid

Safari Operations in Africa

Wildlife Production

Tourism Manager

Advance Rifle Handling

Wildlife Rancher

Firearm Competency

Professional Hunting

Wildlife Warden

SAQA Accredited Training Provider with CATHSSETA as the ETQA / QAP Provider Registration No: 613/P/000242/2014 www.cathsseta.org.za

www.ecoranger.co.za | africa@ecoranger.co.za

SPECIES ID ‒ TREES

WEEPING BOER-BEAN

by Nick Zambatis | Photos © Nick Zambatis unless otherwise indicated

“Exceptionally rich in nectar; so much so that they ‘weep’.”

General description

I

f you have visited the Kruger National Park (KNP) in early spring (August to September), you would most probably have been impressed by a rounded, densely-branched and medium-sized tree (12-16m) growing on river and stream banks or on or close to termite mounds, generally with an abundance of dark red flowers amongst a canopy of dark green leaves. This is a weeping boer-bean, Schotia brachypetala (huilboerboon in Afrikaans, nwavilombe or uvovovo in Xitsonga, and Mulibi in Tshivenda).

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SPECIES ID ϐ TREES

Photo © Hanjo Hellmann

« Nick Zambatis was the former Manager: Biodiversity Conservation in

transfer from Pretoria to the Lowveld was ecstasy and the Kruger appointment

Conservation Management: Kruger National Park. He

was a dream come true,” he recalls. He holds an MSc

retired in 2016. His first job in the Kruger was

degree on the determinants of grass composition and

as a research technician based at Skukuza, which he started in 1987. “The

production in the Kruger National Park, from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

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SPECIES ID ‒ TREES

The weeping boer-bean (Schotia brachypetala) with flowers and new leaves.

Identification The bark varies considerably in texture, being relatively smooth in some individuals but generally rough and grey becoming brown, breaking up into small, irregular blocks that flake off.

A medium-sized weeping boer-bean tree 12-16m tall.

Variations in the bark.

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SPECIES ID ‒ TREES

In young leaves the ruby red and all shades of rose may be spectacular.

Photo courtesy Pretoria NGB/ Tree SA © David Becking

Flowers are in dense, red to deep-red sprays, usually on older twigs, rarely at branch tips. They are exceptionally rich in nectar; so much so that they ‘weep’ a sticky nectar, hence the ‘weeping’ (or huil in Afrikaans) part of the name.

In some years however, flower production is poor.

Flowers produce large quantities of nectar that gives them a shiny, wet appearance.

Na

w r ro

l y-w i n g e d l ea f s te m

.

Th

y e s h i n n e w l ea

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s.

L ea

ve

s.

This most impressive mass of deep red or pink flowers are in dense panicles (indeterminate, branched inflorescence with stalked flowers).

The cup-shaped flowers hold a substantial amount of nectar.

Leaves are compound, alternately arranged and with leaflets borne in four to seven pairs. Leaflets are glossy and hairless, varying considerably in size, ranging from 25 x 12mm to 85 x 45mm in size, young leaflets brown to brownish red and exceptionally shiny, often narrowly winged. They turn dark green in about ten days.

Fruits are in the form of flat, woody pods, 50-170mm x 35-50mm in size; pale brown-green at f irst, becoming brown to dark brown and hard when mature and ripe in late summer, when they split open on the tree to reveal the seeds with a conspicuous, pale yellow fleshy part (aril).

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SPECIES ID ‒ TREES Distribution and habitat Weeping boer-bean is fairly common throughout the KNP in low-lying areas and has been recorded in ten veld types, but is more abundant south of the Sabie River. Essentially a tree of the savanna biome, it occurs in the dryer and warmer deciduous woodland on the eastern side of southern Africa, extending from the Eastern Cape, through KwaZulu-Natal and Eswatini, the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces of South Africa, the eastern tip of Botswana and into Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Skukuza, KNP. Cluster of flowers.

Photo courtesy Pretoria NGB/Tree SA © David Becking

Black rhino (Diceros bicornis) eat the bark.

A vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) sucking nectar from the flowers.

Photo © Stoffel

General ecology Essentially an evergreen species, this tree sheds its leaves in spring over a very short period, particularly under berg wind conditions when the air is hot and dry, when it will suddenly drop most of its leaves within a day or two, the new leaves emerging very soon afterwards.

The tree is fairly cold-resistant and an excellent decorative and shade tree (though not advisable to plant it in car parks or other areas where the dripping sticky nectar will create a problem!).

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SPECIES ID ‒ TREES When in flower, the abundance of nectar attracts a variety of insects and birds and is a noisy hive of activity. The flowers and seeds are eaten by some birds, baboons and monkeys, while the leaves are browsed by some game animals.

The weeping boer-bean is classed as a ‘rain tree’ by some, apparently due to the activities of the spittlebug, which sucks the sap and then ejects it as froth that drips like water. Yet, after having lived in the Kruger Park for more than 30 years and with a large weeping boerbean specimen in his garden, the author never noticed any spittlebug activity in the tree and concludes that the sap-sucking activity is perhaps a phenomenon that occurs in other regions. But without fail, a copious amount of sticky nectar was produced every year.

Spotted-backed weaver or village weaver (Ploceus cucullatus) in a weeping boer-bean tree. Photo © Megan Paine

“When in flower, the abundance of nectar attracts a variety of insects and birds.”

Uses and folklore

The pod with two seeds still in it.

Photo courtesy Pretoria NGB/Tree SA © David Becking

Photo courtesy Pretoria NGB/Tree SA © David Becking

The heartwood is dark, walnut brown to black, finely grained and hard, and has been used to make furniture. The bark and leaves are used in traditional Zulu medicine to treat diarrhoea, hangovers and heartburn. The roasted seeds are edible, the Afrikaans name boerboon referring to this, and to their resemblance to the domestic broad bean. The bark is used for tanning and dyeing, giving leather a redbrown or red colour.

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> travel live! live!

This is the Toerbroers motto, and during 2021 we have had the privilege to enrich the lives of our guests with more than 80 tours locally and internationally. Toerbroers, lead by Andries Hendrik Potgieter and Wiaan Fourie together with a five-star team, is the biggest Afrikaans tourism organisation in South Africa. Toerbroers believes in creating memorable experiences for our guests at an affordable rate and to encourage South Africans to pack their bags and embark on an adventure.

In 2022 we are going even BIGGER and BETTER! Here are some of the tour packages we have made available:

Rhino Days

Cheetah Weekend

3 days, 2 nights in the Greater Kruger with return transfers from Pretoria, accommodation, all meals, 4 games drives, interaction with wild cheetahs and a bush walk.

Kruger Weekend

We have extended our popular rhino days to include school groups as well. This one-day excursion provides transport from Pretoria, full-day interaction with rhinos, bottle-feeding baby rhinos and learning more about this endangered species.

3 days, 2 nights on the banks of the Crocodile River in a four-star lodge. This is a self-drive package and includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner, as well as park entrance.

For more information: sya@toerbroers.co.za | +27 (0)82 332 9512

www.toerbroers.co.za

MOHOLOHOLO

Photos © Karen Pretorius

T 72

he Moholoholo group started off with the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in 1991 and this soon turned into a haven for a variety of animals that were either orphaned, injured or poisoned and in need of help.

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

Mountain View.

ADVERTORIAL ϐ MOHOLOHOLO

Under the careful watch of Brian Jones, the Centre has expanded tremendously over the years and has become a critical station for animals of the region. While many Brian Jones of the animal visitors are rehabilitated and released into the wild, there are a number of ‘permanent residents’ that reside at the Centre and are used as ambassadors for their species. This includes the world-famous honey badger, Stoffel. Moholoholo receives 1 000 school children and adults on average per month.

Situated on banks of the Blyde River, hidden under lush jackalberry trees and surrounded by beautifully kept lawns, Ya Mati is the ideal venue for that very special wedding, function or family breakaway.

It has a unique stone and thatch chapel, spacious riverside function facilities, five luxury chalets and 11 uniquely situated campsites with water and electricity points and built-in braais.

At the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Ya Mati luxury bedroom.

Beautiful setting at Ya Mati.

Boma at Ya Mati.

If you prefer a bush breakaway, Mountain View is the ideal location. The reserve is approximately 60km from the Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate and has become a preferred destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife interest groups.

The reserve is home to a wide variety of birds and animals like, buffalo, rhino, hippo and leopard, to name but a few.

The camp offers basic but neat and comfortable accommodation in well-appointed thatched chalets.

Mountain View can accommodate up to 28 guests and offers full catering or bed-andbreakfast. The chalets have no kitchens but do have a small fridge, kettle, cutlery and outside braai area. Side dishes can be arranged with your braai.

Guided bush walks, as well as game and night drives are also available.

For more information contact: Mountain View: +27 (0)12 943 0474 | moholomountainview@worldonline.co.za Ya Mati: +27 (0)12 361 7218 | moholo@worldonline.co.za Rehab Centre: +27 (0)15 795 5236 | moholorehab@wol.co.za www.moholoholo.co.za

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ADVERTORIAL ϐ CAMELOPARDALIS

CAMELOPARDALIS

Photos © Karen Pretorius

amelopardalis is a beautiful, newly-built bush retreat nestled in the thickets of the African Bushveld.

This Bushveld retreat accommodates six adults in three private bedrooms. Extra beds are available on request.

The comfortable, fully-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher has neat finishes.

It has two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen and lounge area with a huge dining table built from live edge wood. The fire pit allows guests to enjoy evenings filled with lions’ roars and hyaenas’ howls as you relax in the lovely surroundings that this stunning house has to offer.

Sun loungers on the deck give you the opportunity to relax after a dip in the pool under the hammering African sun.

The lodge’s upmarket finishes, however, do not detract from that bush-retreat feel.

Camelopardalis is situated in Marloth Park, a wildlife sanctuary on the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park. Marloth has its own wildlife and boasts four of the Big Five, with the exception of elephants. However, as the Crocodile River forms the boundary between Marloth Park and the Kruger National Park, you are likely to spot elephants playing in the river.

The lodge is close to Mozambique and Eswatini, as well as the Malelane and Crocodile Gates into the Kruger National Park, which makes it the perfect place to stop.

This is the place to start your true African adventure.

For general enquiries/reservations, contact Camelopardalis on Tel: Carmen Theunissen: +27 (0)82 499 9056 E-mail: info@marlothparktourism.com www.marlothparktourism.com

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Subscribe and explore!

If you crave venturing into Africa’s many wilderness areas, are passionate about its wildlife and culture, or simply have an insatiable interest in learning more about this diverse continent, you’ll love losing yourself in the pages of Travel Africa magazine.

Published quarterly since 1997, Travel Africa draws on expert guides, writers, operators, conservationists and photographers to provide inspiration, insight and practical advice with every turn of the page.

Let Africa come to you. Subscribe, in print or digital formats, at:

travelafricamag.com/subscriptions

hoedspruit@midrandas.co.za

Shop 3, 392 Huilboerboom Rd. HWE, Hoedspruit, Limpopo

11

TOP

PHOTO COMPETITION ϐ SHOWCASE

THEMAERK

P KRUGER S G : SELF SIGHTIN AMPS DRIVE, C & HIDES

AMATEUR photographs

SUMMER 2021

W

e are always amazed by the excellent shots we receive for our summer competition with the theme SELF-DRIVES, CAMPS & HIDES! This means a level playing field and the Kruger National Park surely delivers excellent sightings for our amateur photographers.

Our executive team was busy beavers again this round with a lot of back-andforth decisions on the TOP 50 entries – and again for the final TOP 10 winners.

Congratulations to all our entrants. Even if you are not a winner in this round, the competition would not be a competition if you didn’t enter – and you might just be

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KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

lucky in one of our future competitions.

To our sponsors and participating Facebook group members – a warm thank you to all.

For the members that are lucky enough to travel during the festive season – get your photos in order before you leave. Our Autumn 2022 competition will kick off early in January, so keep your eyes on the Facebook group’s platform. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions.

Our theme for the Autumn 2022 Amateur Photo Competition is BIRDS, BEES, BUGS & BUTTERFLIES. We can’t wait to receive entries for this theme – they are usually breathtaking and most colourful!

PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

1

Deon Kelbrick ‒ Winner ‘Heterochromia (two different colour eyes) leopard’ Deon wins a two-night self-catering stay for four guests at Antares Bush Camp & Safaris Sponsor: Antares Bush Camp & Safaris Camera: Nikon D850 Lens: Nikon 300 2.8 Area: S26, KNP

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A FULLY EQUIPPED SELF-CATERING BUSH-CAMP WITHIN THE GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

BOOK THE ENTIRE CAMP EXCLUSIVELY SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS & SMALL SPECIALISED GROUPS SUCH AS PHOTOGRAPHY & BIRDING GROUPS

Spend a minimum of two nights relaxing in a big five reserve with unlimited use of Umgede underground hide situated within the camp boundaries. One gamedrive or walk per day is included.

Airconditioning in all bedrooms, fully equiped kitchen with two fridge freezers, electric oven with a 5 ring gas hob, inside and outside dining, comfortable lounge with a small libarary, braai and two decks overlooking the waterhole and pool.

An additional option is available to include a chef to cook your meals.

ZZZ DQWDUHV FR ]D

LDQ#DQWDUHV FR ]D

PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

The story behind the winning photograph

THE RARE HETEROCHROMIA LEOPARD Heterochromia is the rare genetic condition where something has two different colour eyes, exactly like this beautiful young male leopard I had the privilege of seeing in the Kruger.

I was cruising along on the S26 dirt road on a rather hot afternoon. This road is not known for being very productive, so I did not have high expectations and found myself greatly surprised by an exceptional sighting.

Something caught my eye on a termite mound between bushes not far from the road. I stopped and when I had a better look, I realised it was a leopard. I could not believe it. Because of the particular road and area, I thought it might be a skittish leopard and was worried it would run away. I watched its behaviour and to my surprise this young male leopard was very relaxed and not bothered with the presence of the car at all.

After looking through my binos I noticed something rather unique and something I have never seen before – this leopard had two different colour eyes!

He started getting active after about an hour.

He moved off the termite mound, then walked straight onto the road and began stalking a flock of guineafowl. After his failed attempt to catch a guineafowl, this majestic young leopard continued to showcase his charisma and clumsily hunted a few Natal spurfowl and squirrels, putting up an extraordinary show!

He chased one squirrel up and down a tree for about 15 minutes, which was really entertaining to watch. Luckily for the squirrel it outplayed the leopard and got away. Fed up with himself, the young male came back to the road and went to lie down.

I had to leave him be to get back before gate closing time, but wow, what a special sighting this was, being able to spend a total of two and a half hours with this young male leopard displaying his curiosity and confidence as young males do!

Deon Kelbrick KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

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BOOK YOUR OWN PRIVATE LODGE Self Cater with 5 x en suite rooms, rock pool, lapa and entertainment area. www.lrgl.co.za Contact for bookings: bookings@lrgl.co.za | +27(0) 72 512 3589 or +27(0) 76 0777 035

PHOTO COMPETITION ϐ SHOWCASE

R MOST POPULA Graeme Mitchley ‘Kori bustard caught a scrub hare’ Graeme secured the Most Popular Photograph in the second round, winning a mid-week self-catering breakaway for six guests at Leopard Rock Guest Lodge.

Sponsor: Leopard Rock Guest Lodge Camera: Canon SX60 Lens: Zoom Area: H10, KNP

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Welcome to the Home of the Big 5 Mjejane Private Game Reserve Adjoining the Kruger National Park

Prestigious Lifestyle Properties Private River Front Luxury Home - POA

-

5 bedrooms en suite Open plan living Superb river and Kruger views https://property.winchestermarketing.com/mjejane2/

Luxury River Front Fractional Lodges

-

4 week fractional shares 5/6 bedrooms en suite Private vehicle and ranger Exceptional river views

Big 5 Reserve View Home - R4.9 Million

-

3 bedrooms en suite Situated on the Big 5 fence line Low maintenance https://property.winchestermarketing.com/mjejane3/

From R495 P/M

- 4, 3 & 2 bedroom units - Fully contained, with private pools and boma - Individual week purchases

Riverfront Land Opportunities

Big 5 Reserve View Land Opportunities

- Freehold title river front stands - North facing

- From R890 000 incl. VAT - Freehold title stands

Become part of this 3 700ha Big 5 Reserve with 10km of unfenced river frontage of the Kruger - and enjoy private access to the Park via our low-water bridge.

Discover more: visit - www.winchestermarketing.com or Contact Mike Whiting on : 082 551 5276 or michaelwhiting43@gmail.com

PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

2

Peter McIntyre ‒ 1st runner-up ‘Love is in the air, Marico sunbirds’ Peter wins a four-night midweek stay for six guests at one of the Mjejane Bush Lodges.

Sponsor: Winchester Marketing Camera: Nikon D850 Lens: 500mm PF f2.5 Area: Sunset Dam, Lower Sabie, KNP

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www.crocbridge.co.za Email: info@crocbridge.co.za Mobile: + 27 72 3888 408

OUR LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE AWAITS YOU WITH LOVELY VIEWS INTOTHE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK. Dinner & Breakfast included!

Please book directly on our website.

We boast a great location for your Kruger holiday as we are ideally situated just 200m from the southern entrance of Kruger’s crocodile bridge gate.

VISIT: www.crocbridge.co.za to book online now.

RECEIVE YOUR DISCOUNT BY BOOKING DIRECT THE SOUTHERN REGION OFFERS WONDERFUL GAME SIGHTINGS. HERDS OF ELEPHANT AND OTHER GAME ARE REGULAR VISITORS WHICH CAN BE VIEWED DIRECTLY FROM THE LODGE WHILST SIPPING DRINKS AT THE POOL OR SITTING RELAXING ON THE VIEWING DECK.

PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

3

Wolfie van Eck ‒ 2nd runner-up ‘Fall from grace’ Wolfie wins a two-night stay for two guests sharing at the Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge.

Sponsor: Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge Camera: Canon 7D MKII Lens: Sigma 150-600c Area: S1, Doispan Road, KNP

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PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

Sanra Oosthuysen ‒

‘Wild dog silhouette’

Camera: Canon 60D | Lens: Sigma 100-500mm | Area: Skukuza, KNP

5

Nickie Wolmarans ‘Power walk’ Camera: Canon 5D MKIV Lens: Sigma 150-600mmC Area: H4-1, KNP

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PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

6

Guy Scott ‘Fish eagle taking off’ Camera: Canon 5D MKIV Lens: Sigma 60-600mm Sport Area: Verhami Bridge near Crocodile Gate, KNP

7

AnneMarie Scheepers ‒

‘Cannibal crocodile’

Camera: Canon 7D MKII | Lens: Canon 100-400mm | Area: H4-1, Sunset Dam, KNP

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PHOTO COMPETITION ‒ SHOWCASE

8

Shaun Etsebeth ‒

‘Protection in flight’

Camera: Canon 7D MKII | Lens: Sigma 150-600mm Sport | Area: Undisclosed

Jenny Rood ‒

‘Star trails over Kruger’

Camera: Nikon D600 | Lens: Tamron 15-30mm f2.8 | Area: Satara, KNP

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PHOTO COMPETITION ϐ SHOWCASE

10

Marijke Claassen ‒

‘I love you mom’

Camera: Canon EOS70 MKII | Lens: Sigma 150-600mm | Area: H4-1, KNP

OUR AUTUMN 2022

AMATEUR PHOTO COMPETITION will kick off on

16 January 2022

How do I enter?

1

Become a member of our KRUGER MAGAZINE Facebook group to enter your photo. This will also enable you to vote for your favourite entries!

2

Terms & conditions and prizes will be announced on Facebook on 16 January 2022 ‒ be sure to stay tuned in. The TOP 50 will be announced on 13 February 2022.

3

The top 10 photographs will be published in our Autumn issue, to be distributed in March 2022.

facebook.com/KRUGER MAGAZINE group

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

KRUGER REVISITED

by Roger de la Harpe | Photos © Roger and Pat de la Harpe

C

OVID-19 has a lot to answer for.

People have died or have been very sick, and have taken huge strain from a financial, social and mental point of view. We all have had to change our attitudes, behaviour and, in many instances, change what we do workwise. If you’re lucky, you still have a job or clients (if you are self-employed) but you may very well have had to do some re-inventing.

We sure had to…

So, for the first time since lock down began in March 2020, and with great excitement, we headed down to Cape Town International Airport to board Airlink’s EMBRAER RJ135 that would whisk us off to Skukuza in the Kruger National Park.

Our destination? Jock Safari Lodge with their own 6 000ha concession, hidden away at the confluence of the Mitomeni and Biyamiti Rivers about midway between Skukuza and Malelane Gate.

Roger and Pat de la Harpe

« Roger de la Harpe is a freelance photographer based in South Africa. He has long had a passion for conservation, natural history, wild places and indigenous cultures and has plied his trade in various regions of the African continent for 25 years. With his wife, Pat, he has published 27 coffeetable books, the most recent of which, African Icons, celebrates Africa’s

most iconic features and creatures. Two previous books, In Search of the African Wild Dog and In Search of the African Lion, have a strong conservation focus. Roger and Pat also own and manage Africa Imagery, an online database of over 45 000 images of the people, wildlife and landscapes of the African continent.

Scan the QR code or visit: www.rogerandpatdelaharpe.com to access Roger and Pat de la Harpe Photography

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

The f irst game drive and we picked up this gorgeous female leopard.

Sony A1 and 200-600mm lens. 1/250 sec at f6,3. ISO 1000.

Sometimes one must look a little further than the obvious to tell the story.

Sony A1 and Sigma 24-70mm lens. 1/259 sec at f4,5. ISO250.

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY long time, it would also be the first ‘proper’ shoot for our new Sony cameras – the A1 for me and the A6600 for Pat. Changing camera systems has been a monumental decision. We have been using our Micro Four Thirds system ever since the Panasonic GH5 first put in an appearance early in 2017. They have provided great service in some pretty difficult conditions, but time and technology march on, and after some serious soul-searching and research, we decided to make the change. Sony’s autofocusing, image stabilising, pixel count and colour science were ultimately the deciding factors, and, on this trip, it became very clear that we had made the right decision.

We arrived at Jock’s early enough to be able to head out for a game drive in the late afternoon and almost immediately found our first leopard – a young female chillin’ out in a tree just a few hundred metres from camp.

Relaxed hardly does justice to her state and we spent a good hour with her, shooting from a variety of positions.

The lightning fast autofocus was a joy to work with and combined with the wonderful image stabilisation resulted in a previously unheard-of percentage of ‘keepers’.

Need a long lens for wildlife photography? Not really… This was shot with the Sigma 24-70mm lens at 24mm. 1/250sec at f6,3. ISO160.

Do not attempt getting this close to an elephant without a very experienced guide! Thanks, Estiaan.

We shot a whole bunch of pics using different compositions and framing and, importantly, remembering to shoot vertical compositions as well. So often, with picture researchers and designers, we hear “great pic, but do you have a vertical version (portrait)” or vice versa. It’s best to shoot both as far as possible and then you can say, “actually, we do.”

We first visited the lodge in 2014 when we were working on our book African Icons and have been back a number of times since then to shoot the lodge, its commercial operation and wildlife for their publicity purposes.

In addition to being our first trip to the Kruger in such a

The Sonys we were using have a very useful feature where you can set a maximum auto ISO level and a minimum shutter speed and, as far as possible, the camera attempts to work within these parameters. In the fading afternoon light, we relied on this feature to ensure the shutter speeds were sufficiently high to avoid camera shake when using that long 600mm lens.

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY Man, the sun rises early on the eastern side of South Africa! We’ve become used to the situation in the Western Cape where it rises at a more sensible hour. So, we crept

out of bed at 4:15 every day for the length of our stay to catch that wonderful early morning light that takes a photo from great to awesome. We soon fell into the rhythm of the bush,

heading out in search of photo opportunities in the early morning and again in the late afternoon.

Traversing the concession over a period of seven days,

In amongst shooting the guests and game viewing vehicles we managed to get some shots of what all the excitement was about. Sony A1 and 200-600mm lens. 1/500 sec at f6,3. ISO 200.

We were out early, before the other guests, and were fortunate to pick up this hyaena returning to the den. Such interesting interaction between it and other clan members. Sony A1 and 200-600mm lens. 1/250 sec at f9. ISO 800.

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Sony 200-600mm lens at its widest focal length but even then the lens is on a beanbag on the side of the game viewer – one cannot be too steady. Sony 200-600mm lens. 1/500 sec at f5,6. ISO 100.

The most amazing animals and so very endangered, wild dogs can make for some great pics, but you have to be fast.

Some would say they should be on Ritalin! 1/250 sec at f6,3. ISO 250.

we came across great sightings of elephant, buffalo, a fair bit of general game – impala, waterbuck, kudu, giraffe and zebra – and as luck would have

it, a pack of 16 wild dogs. First morning out we photographed a lion pride of three adult females and nine cubs, joined a bit later by two huge

black-maned males. We blazed away, the cubs providing many photo opportunities before they did what lions do best – fall asleep in the shade.

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

The cutest and smallest of the litter. Patience is required – don’t leave the sighting until you’re absolutely sure it’s done and dusted. Sony A1 and 200-600mm lens. 1/500 sec at f6,3. ISO 800.

“All nine cubs roused themselves and headed down into the riverbed to drink.”

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Well, we thought, that’s that for the day and started the game viewer, preparing to go in search of new subjects. As we began moving off, all nine cubs roused themselves and headed down into the riverbed to drink in a nearby pool before engaging in some marvellous

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roughhousing and playing, providing another bout of feverish photography.

Lesson learnt: Don’t leave the sighting until you’re absolutely sure that it’s done. And even then, keep that camera fired up and ready.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

We were not there to spend the entire time shooting the incredible wildlife (as much as we would have loved to) but also to shoot various aspects of the commercial operation – the lodge, its rooms, game drives, sundowners, coffee stops, etc. Invariably these are the aspects that take the

time – the setup. Whether we are doing the rooms, fine dining areas, river dining or, indeed, just the evening sundowners, it all has to be managed and coordinated, with the wonderful staff of Jock Safari Lodge helping in no small way to make the shoots possible.

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY This is where the Sigma 24-70mm and 14-24mm ART lenses shine and, while they are absolutely brilliant lenses, moving from the Micro Four Thirds eco-system to full frame, cognisance needs to be taken of the fact that what is a wideangle lens (say 24mm) on the FF camera, effectively becomes

a ‘standard’ (48mm) lens on the M43 camera. The DOF (depth of field) is linked to the focal length of the lens, so the wider lenses used on the M43 cameras mean you have a greater area in focus on these bodies for any given aperture at the same angle of view.

This has considerable

implications and we found ourselves having to shoot at much smaller apertures (around f11 or f16) to achieve the required range of sharpness. These small apertures result in correspondingly longer shutter speeds, so a tripod is a must in most cases when shooting interiors.

HDR images ensure that there is detail in both the highlights and deepest shadows. A merge of three images.

Sony A1 and Sigma 24-70mm lens.

Experience wildlife photography in the untamed setting of Jock Safari Lodge – for more information and South African resident special rates, visit https://jocksafarilodge.com

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WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

This took hours of work – so much went into it. In the end it took just a few minutes to shoot this photo of the fire pit and dining area at Jock Safari Lodge. An HDR image created by blending f ive photographs shot at different exposures into one image. Sony A1 and Sigma 14-24mm lens.

Photographing interiors is often problematic as the contrast range between the interior and exterior of a room can be extreme and coping with this in one frame (even for the Sony A1 – a camera with an incredible dynamic range) is difficult if not impossible.

HDR (high dynamic range) images to the rescue!

Depending on the situation, we shot either three or five frame sequences to ensure we had a full range of brightness levels and would then blend these into one HDR image in Adobe Lightroom. This ensured detail in the interior and exterior areas in the frame.

A week later we arrived home, a tad sleep deprived but happy to have been back in the bush, shooting again. We’d forgotten how fabulous the early morning light was, the smell of dew-soaked grass, the look of backlit lions, waterbuck and tamboti leaves. We’d missed the sounds of daybreak in the Kruger, the excitement of shooting a large pride of lions, of seeing a leopard chillin’ on a branch in a mopane tree and, believe it or not, the musty smell of a pack of wild dogs!

“A tripod is a must in most cases when shooting interiors.”

As always, if you’d like me to cover any particular aspect of photography drop us a line at roger@rogerandpatdelaharpe.com.

There are a whole bunch of photo tutorials and tips on our website www.rogerandpatdelaharpe.com.

www.youtube.com/c/RogerdelaHarpe @RogerdelaHarpe www.facebook.com/RogerandPatdelaHarpe

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KNP ѩ HISTORY

KNP HISTORY: History of camps

by Joep Stevens Photos © Joep Stevens unless otherwise indicated

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In Issue 17 of KRUGER MAGAZINE, we featured the history of Balule. In Issue 18 we look at the history of Olifants Camp.

Old Olifants sticker.

The spectacular view from the camp and many of the units make it unique – October 2011.

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« Joep Stevens is a keen historian who was introduced to the Kruger National Park by his parents in 1966. This ignited his interest in and passion for the Park.

KNP ‒ HISTORY

Origin of Olifants

B

ack in 1953 mention was already made of a replacement camp for Olifants River Camp (referred to as Balule from 1960 onwards).

Gorge (also called Olifants Gorge) had logistical problems relating to water and access.

The Eastern Province Herald of 6 October 1953 reports as follows under the heading “New Developments in the Kruger Park”: “A new Olifants River camp site under the magnificent trees would be the largest of the new camps. The new camp of 200 beds would be built opposite the causeway.”

Aerial pre-fire image of Olifants in early 1972. Note the two management houses that were converted to family cottages. Photo © SANParks archive

Aerial image taken early in 1972 showing main buildings (thatched and before 24 February). Photo © SANParks archive

Aerial image f rom the east showing diplomatic camp in the foreground and huts (106 to 111) still with closed verandas – early 1972. Photo © SANParks archive

Having been opened on 3 June 1960, 34 years after the 1926 Kruger National Park proclamation, Olifants is the first large second-generation camp to be opened in the Park.

Soon after the end of World War II, it was realised that additional beds were required in the Park and plans were developed in order to achieve this. In the first ten years (from 1946 to 1956), the number of guests grew almost three-fold and in thirty years (from 1946 to 1976) this figure grew 10-fold.

The fact that much of the Park was closed during summer and the gradual opening up from the fifties onwards until 1977/8 when all camps remained open all year round, certainly contributed to these growth figures. There was also an inventory deficiency and many of the camps were expanded considerably during this era, inter alia, Skukuza and Satara.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY

One of the earliest pics of the Olifants viewpoint in the camp showing Prunella Odquist in August 1960. Photo © Odquist Collection

Origin of the name Olifants and other local names Letaba is the name of a large tributary of the Olifants River that joins it from the northwest about 6km from the Mozambique border. The name is of Sesotho origin, meaning ‘sand river’.

Olifants gate in 1967.

Photo © Cecil Holmes

Mangwanduna is the name of the hill on which Olifants Camp is located. The name originates from the Xitsonga mangwa nduna meaning ‘zebra stallion’.

N’wamanzi is the name of the hill and small tributary of the Olifants River 7,5km west of Olifants Camp after which a viewpoint along the H1-5 (near the junction with H8) has been named. It is a Xitsonga name referring to the name of a person who lived here earlier.

“The location, overlooking the river, was the preferred one – the additional expense was worthwhile, as it would greatly enhance the guest experience.”

Olifants viewpoint showing dense riparian forests along the river – 7 June 1966. Photo © Joop Stevens

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KNP ‒ HISTORY

Olifants is the name of the camp along the large river with the same name that has its source deep inland near eMalahleni in western Mpumalanga. It is the Afrikaans word for ‘elephants’.

Shisakashayingwe is the name of a tributary of the Letaba River north-west of Olifants and is crossed on the S93. The origin of the name is from the Xitsonga words shisaka sha yingwe meaning ‘leopard’s lair’.

“Olifants is the Afrikaans word for ‘elephants’.”

Olifants gate in April 1976.

Photo © Gary Taylor

New look camp gate at Olifants – July 2007.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY

Development history of Olifants Camp In December 1957 the board approved that only one brand of fuel be sold in the Park and after a tender for a tenyear contract was put out, Total Oil Products (Pty) Ltd was appointed, commencing 1 January 1959.

The proceeds of this ten-year agreement were earmarked for the development of the new camp.

Main building after the 1972 fire – July 1976. Photo © Joop Stevens

At the Pretoria board meeting of 15 August 1958, architect KA Richardson (with the town planning firm Bowling & Floyd) presented the preliminary sketch plan for the layout of the new camp as well as two options for the design of the main building that would house the shop, restaurant and reception.

Bungalow 106 looking eastwards over the Olifants River – July 1976. Photo © SANParks archive

Photo © SANParks archive

Aerial image of Olifants in early 1972 showing the western wing.

There was extensive discussion on the composition of accommodation, namely how many should be bungalows with shower and toilet en suite versus ordinary huts using communal bathrooms.

It was resolved that the camp layout and preferred option for main building were approved, the installation of a sprinkler system in the main building be considered and that the construction of the camp be performed by the board’s own construction teams.

At the subsequent board meeting of 9 December 1958 held in Pretoria, the following was decided:

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• To name the new camp Olifants Camp.

• That the layout as proposed by architect KA Richardson was approved.

• That 30 units in the new camp would be built with shower and toilet en suite.

• Two or three ablution facilities be developed at appropriate locations to service the ordinary huts. They had to be smaller than those at Skukuza and Lower Sabie and at a lower cost. One had to be placed to serve the campers.

• Camp kitchens with stoves (similar to those at Skukuza, but with simpler design and lower cost) be provided.

KNP ‒ HISTORY

Olifants bungalow – circa 1970s. Photo © SANParks archive

Excerpts from Travel Trade Gazette of 18 December 1964.

• Provision had to be made for electric lighting in all bungalows, huts and other buildings.

• That Richardson’s design be approved.

• That all bungalow and hut tariffs be the same as those being charged at other camps.

• That the construction commences and be completed as soon as possible • The installation of a sprinkler in the main buildings would not proceed and that large and expensive structures rather be insured against fire risk.

On 9 May 1959, the board visited the preferred site on Mangwanduna hill and held a

special board meeting there.

It became evident that the £60 000 was not going to be sufficient to complete the full project, including the 96 units, main buildings and services. It was estimated that the transport cost (mainly to and from Skukuza) alone was going to be £12 000. Also, the decision on location obviously influenced the cost. It was decided that, nonetheless, the location, overlooking the river, was the preferred one and that the additional expense was

worthwhile, as it would greatly enhance the guest experience.

It was further decided that the main buildings, water provision and other services must be planned for the 250 beds/96 units but that the total project cost was not to exceed the £60 000 threshold (including costs already incurred). It was foreseen that about half (48) of the envisaged accommodation units (96) were to be built initially and the remainder would be added as funds became available.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY As the new high-water bridge over the Olifants River was being planned as part of the new tarred road project between Satara and Letaba, it was decided that the location of this bridge should be such that it was not visible from the chosen site for the new Olifants Camp.

At the 25 June 1959 board meeting, it was proposed that the name of the new camp be changed to Paul Kruger Camp or Louis Trichardt Camp. This was opposed by the majority of the meeting and the name Olifants Camp was maintained.

Seating area outside the restaurant with well-known photograph before the 1972 fire – circa early 1970s. Photo © SANParks archive

“The need for family cottages was also highlighted.”

At the 22 September 1959 board meeting the progress report by first park engineer, Albert Kuschke, was presented and highlighted the following: • Detailed plans for the main building have more or less been finalised and the costs were estimated at £10 000.

Foundations were being dug.

• The 12 bungalows with en suite bathrooms on the western wing (upstream) side were about just over 50% completed.

• Of the 36 ordinary huts planned on the eastern wing (downstream), the foundations were about 25% completed.

• As the £60 000 for the envisaged high-water bridge had not been secured, a lowwater bridge estimated at £12 000 was considered at a suitable location about a mile (1,61km) downstream from the camp, where the river runs through a deep, rocky furrow.

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Official handover of the N'wana Wa Ndlopfu (young elephant) sculpture by I Watt, MD of Old Mutual Properties to MD Mabunda, KNP Director on 28 August 2001. Artwork by the late Phil MInnaar.

• Blasting was taking place to develop the water pump system on the northern bank below the camp. One of two water pumps had been operationalised for construction work to proceed.

• Foundations for the 40 000-gallon (182kilolitre) reservoir had been completed.

• The first phase of construction (48 units) was expected to be completed by about July 1960.

The 23 March 1960 board meeting approved a fiveyear extension of the Total fuel supply contract and the additional £30 000 enabled

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the following items to be approved for the completion of Olifants Camp: • An additional £5 000 for the full electrification of the camp, including a 33kW generator as well as a standby unit of 20kW. • £10 000 for camp furniture and shop and restaurant equipment.

• £15 000 for the additional accommodation units that could not be completed as part of phase 1 (£60 000).

It was also reported that construction progressed well, and it was decided that the official opening of Olifants would take place on 3 June 1960.

Old Olifants postcard – circa 1990.

Original plaque in the main building of Olifants Camp – 13 August 2004.

Photo © Art Publishers

Photo © SANParks archive

SANParks postcard of Olifants circa 1980s showing original grey colouring of accommodation units.

During the 3 June 1960 opening it became evident that both sides of the camp (western and eastern wing) were to have both types of accommodation (ordinary huts and bungalows with shower and toilet en suite). This was because guests sometimes required both types and the units were then far apart. The need for family cottages was also highlighted.

The board meeting of 24 March 1961 approved the recommendation to change the name of Olifants River Camp to Balule. This was to prevent confusion between Olifants River Camp and the newly opened Olifants Camp.

Best riverview bungalows showing previous green colouring – 12 August 2004.

A report reflecting project progress as at 30 June 1961 was tabled at the 19 September 1961 board meeting. The following was highlighted: • Completed to date: › Main building containing shop and restaurant › 36 ordinary huts › 15 bungalows with shower and toilet en suite › 2 family cottages, one six-bed and one four-bed › A water pump station with reservoir and distribution › An electrical power station with distribution › 2 public ablutions › 2 camp kitchens › Furniture and fittings for all accommodation and buildings

› Camp fence with gate • The total cost amounted to R168 742 against a budget of R180 000.

• To complete the camp the following was still envisaged at that stage at an additional cost of R70 000: › 36 ordinary huts › 3 bungalows with shower and toilet en suite › 4 family cottages (or 8 bungalows with shower and toilet en suite) › 3 camp kitchens › 2 ablution blocks › Staff quarters • Once completed the camp would have 300 beds that would then have been costed at R800 per bed.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY On 1 May 1961, the newly completed Phalaborwa Gate was opened to the public. This development improved access significantly as it replaced the old Malopeni Gate several kilometres to the north.

From the start of the summer season in 1964, Olifants remained open all year round.

In March 1973 Eskom power lines were provided at Letaba Camp and in May 1973 these were extended to Olifants Camp, effectively enabling it to be on the national power supply grid forthwith.

On 1 April 1974, the tarred road had been completed up to Olifants Camp and by 30 June 1976 the tarred road between Phalaborwa Gate and Letaba had been completed.

In 1977 a new rangers post was established at Olifants.

Prior to that the area was part of Letaba section.

Looking east from Olifants viewpoint showing Lebombo Guest House and Lebombo mountains – 15 April 2017.

In 1979, the CD Ellis Guest House was completed and commissioned through the donor model with a benefit agreement of 25 years. This facility was later renamed the Lebombo Guest House.

Olifants signage – 12 July 2011.

Road signage near Olifants – circa 1990.

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KNP ѩ HISTORY

“The remaining ordinary huts in Olifants were gradually upgraded.”

During 1982/83 the campsite at Olifants was closed due to the unfavourable terrain and a separate satellite campsite envisaged, similar to Maroela near Orpen.

During the 1980s the remaining ordinary huts in Olifants were gradually upgraded to bungalows with shower and toilet en suite and by 1985/86 this had been completed and there were no ordinary huts left. One of the old ablution blocks was converted to a two-bedroom bungalow and it was named Kambaku.

During 1986/87 the reception in the main building was moved to the information centre and the old reception area was converted into the cafeteria.

During 1987/88 the linen room was replaced.

During 1991/92 the flagship eight-bed Nshawu Guest House with a prime view of the Olifants River was developed where previously the DipCamp used to be. This was funded through the donor model with 30-year benefits that expire on 31 December 2022.

Aerial view showing Nshawu Guest House – 26 November 2001.

View from veranda of Nshawu Guest House – 17 April 2005.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY

Olifants main complex being refurbished with expansions to shop and restaurant – 1 October 2009.

From 2000 onwards Olifants became the activity mecca of the Park – 12 August 2004.

From 2008 the camp underwent a major facelift in preparation for the 2010 Soccer World Cup and this included an enlarged restaurant facility with an outside deck overlooking the Olifants River, an enlarged shop, a new lapa for functions

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Staff house in Olifants being converted to four-bed family cottage – 28 August 2015.

and the rethatching of the main building (of which the thatch had been replaced with cement-fibre tiles after the 24 February 1972 fire that destroyed the roof of this building). This had been completed by early 2010.

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“The camp underwent a major facelift in preparation for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.”

KNP ‒ HISTORY During 2013 work commenced on enlarging the reception centre and providing a swimming pool. During this period a temporary mobile facility was used as a reception.

During 2015 two management residences in the camp were converted to guest cottage accommodation for four persons each.

Newly completed swimming pool with toilet facilities – 28 August 2015.

Olifants restaurant dining area overlooking the river – 31 December 2016.

Upgraded reception with new entrance, also showing the current colour of the Olifants buildings – 31 May 2016.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY

Incidents at Olifants Camp Over the 61 years of the camp’s existence, the following incidents have been recorded: 1. During the late night/early morning hours of 13/14 December 1966, Mrs AMK Steyn, aged 30 years, from Alberton was bitten in the face by a spotted hyaena. Mrs Steyn was staying in a tent with her husband and children and due to the hot conditions, the tent flaps were left open. She underwent surgery in Pretoria.

2. During the same year it was reported that a boy (De Witt) that was sleeping on the porch of a hut, had also been attacked by a spotted hyaena.

Olifants main building after the devastating fire of 24 February 1972.

Photo © SANParks archive

Devastating fire at the Olifants main complex on 24 February 1972. Photographer unknown Riverview bungalow 9 that burnt down on 5 January 2019 – 26 February 2019.

The Star of 14 December 1966.

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KNP ‒ HISTORY 3. On 24 February 1972 a fire destroyed the main building complex. The fire seems to have emanated from the kitchen area.

The building was rebuilt and reopened in July 1973. During the interim, the diplomatic camp was converted into a restaurant.

4. During the 1974/75 financial year a hut was struck by lightning and burnt down.

1996 Olifants River during flood of early 1996 – note the presence of riparian forest.

5. In April 1988, Phenias Rihlampfu, the water pump attendant at the Olifants River pump station below the camp, was tragically killed when he and his wife were walking to the river to do some fishing. An elephant bull made a surprise attack on the couple and Phenias helped his wife up and urged her to get to safety before he was trampled by the elephant.

6. During the evening of 5 January 2019, strong winds blew the embers from a nearby braai into the thatch of riverview bungalows 9 and 10, setting them alight. Both units were completely destroyed.

2012 Olifants River during the all-time record flood of 19 January 2012.

Photo © Travis Askham

2016 Olifants River in June 2016 showing the absence of riparian forests.

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PRIVATE LODGE ѩ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

Umgede Underground Hide Photos courtesy Antares Bush Camp & Safaris and Umgede Underground Hide

here are only a handful of underground hides in South Africa and even fewer in the immediate vicinity of the Kruger National Park. These hides offer guests the unique and amazing opportunity to sit in the safety and comfort of a game viewing hide and photograph the animals from their level.

Whether your subject is the mighty elephant, the majestic lion or just the dainty dragonflies as they rest on the lily pads, there will always be something of interest for you to photograph.

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PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

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PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS With the darkness of the night slowly disappearing and the golden light of sunrise revealing the bush colours once more, the crested francolins remind everyone that it’s time to wake up and start a new day.

From inside the comfort of Umgede Hide guests are busy with their cameras capturing the beauty of the goldenbreasted buntings drinking on the edge of the water. Just north of the camp and not too far off, the roars from one

of the resident prides of lion echo across the Bushveld.

As the sun starts to appear over the eastern horizon, the darkness starts to melt away and the birds rejoice with the dawn chorus all around, relieved they have survived to live another day.

Weary photographers start thinking about their morning cup of coffee, having kept vigil through the night waiting for the elusive leopard or civet to show up, when suddenly and as quietly as only they

African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana).

“From inside the comfort of Umgede Hide guests are busy with their cameras capturing the beauty.”

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know how to be, a breeding herd of elephants appears at the water’s edge. Tiredness forgotten, the camera shutters start going like a machine gun and the murmurs of wonder are passed from one guest to the next – “OMG” possibly being the common word on everyone’s lips.

Experiencing elephants drinking mere inches away from you and from ground level must be one of the most humbling moments anyone can experience.

PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

Aerial view of the Bush Camp and Umgede Hide.

With the splashing of trunks as they seem to stir up the waters before sucking it up into their trunks and squirt down their throats, the animals noisily fill their stomachs.

It’s only when you are this close, and you can study exactly how the elephants spread out the tip of their trunks to create the largest suction cup possible but with a perfect seal on the water that you can appreciate

how they must have learnt to master this technique as young elephants.

Just then a sound of shock and instant pleasure emanates from inside the hide as one of the guests nearest the elephants is baptised in a shower of water blessed by the matriarch.

This scenario is played out on a regular basis at Antares Bush Camp and Umgede Hide.

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PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS Antares Bush Camp is marketed as an exclusive threestar graded self-catering camp that can accommodate up to 10 guests. The camp is owned

by Ian and Mel Owtram and between them they run the entire operation with the help of a small team of friendly and dedicated staff.

As you walk through the entrance, with the giant baobab framed in the background, take note of the tracks left behind by the lions that walked through after the fresh concrete was laid. You will emerge onto a deck that leads you into the spacious lounge and dining area. The open rafters create an impression of vast space and are designed to keep the space cool in summer.

Entrance to the lodge.

Outside shower.

Bedroom.

Twin bedroom.

Bathroom Each of the five bedrooms boast an en suite bathroom with outside shower that allows you to enjoy those starry nights after a magical game drive where you may have been lucky enough to see an elusive leopard.

Either side of the deck is a Bushveld garden with a variety of aloes and other indigenous plants that promise to attract plenty of birds and butterflies throughout the year.

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PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS One of the bedrooms is set up as a family room with a queen bed for Mum and Dad and at the other end is an adjoining room with a bunk bed, ensuring that even families with younger children can enjoy the hospitality. The other three rooms are set up as twin rooms, with the option to join the beds together as a king.

The owners have paid special attention to detail with all the finishing’s around the camp.

The copper showerheads,

The camp has a large dining area that looks across the Bushveld towards Grietjie Berg and is easily serviced from the spacious adjoining kitchen area with a large electric oven and five-ring gas hob.

A stone-clad fireplace adds a beautiful ambience to the indoor dining room on those cold wintery nights. The lounge and dining areas have impressive leadwood trees incorporated into the design and furniture, along with recycled pallet furniture.

Comfortable sofas, a wellstocked library and a display unit of interesting artefacts from the bush make this an informative area within the lodge.

There are two decks that lead off the lounge with stunning views down to the busy waterhole. Guests can enjoy the plunge pool on hot summer days, and the adjacent braai (barbecue) area provides an authentic African experience.

hooks, mirrors, beading around the taps, lights and artwork have all been made by various members of the family, giving it that authentic touch.

Apart from relaxing in the peaceful tranquillity of the camp you can also enjoy a game drive on the back of an open safari vehicle or shed the comfort of the vehicle and set out on foot for three hours to explore the small things the bush has to offer. One walk or drive per day is included in the standard booking policies.

The swimming pool area.

Braai area.

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PRIVATE LODGE ‒ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

Umgede Underground Hide.

Impala (Aepyceros melampus).

Watch this! Scan the QR code or visit https://youtu.be/4_yL-b36nM0 to watch the video: ‘Umgede Underground Hide at Antares Bush Camp‘. Published by The Safari Expert.

African bush elephant.

“To get award winning photographs sometimes requires patience and dedication but it can be worthwhile.”

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The reserve is home to all the Big Five species, and a host of other mammals and birds can also be encountered.

Their bird list recorded over the last 20 years has produced more than 300 species so far.

Umgede Hide is easily and safely accessible from the camp with a short 30m walk from the pool deck and still within the

KRUGER MAGAZINE | Issue 18 – Summer 2021

fenced-off area of the gardens.

There is ample space for up to four photographers to sit in comfort on adjustable office chairs and mount cameras on sturdy supports, moveable gimbals or rest them on bean bags. WiFi is available in the hide, giving you the opportunity to do a live post and make your friends envious. There are also ample charging points for those drained camera batteries!

PRIVATE LODGE ѩ ANTARES BUSH CAMP & SAFARIS

The water’s edge is a mere 60-70cm from the opening of the shutters, allowing you to get really close to the animals.

There is ample seating for the non-photographers to also relax and spend time waiting for the animals to turn up or just to keep their partners company. Some guests even take the opportunity to

snuggle down under a blanket and spend the whole night waiting patiently for that one magical photographic opportunity. A coffee and tea station is available, as well as a fridge to keep your drinks cool on a hot summers’ day.

A selection of canvas prints from some of their guests are on display, which they hope will inspire you

to try and capture equally stunning photographs. To get award winning photographs sometimes requires patience and dedication but it can be worthwhile.

If what you are looking for is an affordable self-catering break-away in an exclusive facility, then Antares Bush Camp & Safaris is the place for you and your guests.

Lion (Panthera leo).

For more information visit www.antares.co.za or contact Ian on +27(0) 83 286 8281 | ian@antares.co.za www.facebook.com/AntaresBushCamp antaresbushcamp

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SPECIES ID ϐ ANTELOPE

QUAINT AND OMNIPRESENT

The grey (common) duiker

by Dr SCJ Joubert

D

uikers belong to the subfamily Cephalophinae, which accommodates a particularly large variety of species. Most are restricted to dense forests south of the Sahara Desert and in the Congo basin. In South Africa the red and blue duikers conform to this pattern, inhabiting densely wooded areas. But not the common duiker.

« Salomon Joubert (Dr SCJ Joubert) started his conservation career in 1964 as a postgraduate student in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin and was appointed to the Kruger National Park as Junior Ranger at the end of 1964, stationed at the remote Klipkoppies Section on the Mozambique border (due east of Letaba). In 1967, he was granted study leave to do a BSc (Hon) (Wildlife Management) degree at Pretoria University.

In November 1967, he was transferred to the Research Section

with responsibility for rare antelope, in particular roan. For his work on the social behaviour of roan, he was awarded an MSc and subsequently a DSc degree on the population ecology of roan.

In 1976, he was promoted to Head of Research and was intimately involved in monitoring large mammal populations, a study that yielded all the essentials of what later developed into a Geographical Information System.

SCJ served as Park Warden (Director) of the KNP from 1987 to 1994.

Photo © Alta Pretorius

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SPECIES ID ‒ ANTELOPE

Male grey duiker or common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) in the KNP. Photo © Beate

Female grey duiker.

Photo © Paco Como

“The common duiker is one of the so-called mini-antelopes.”

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This amazing species occurs throughout Africa south of the Sahara Desert, but avoids dense forests and true desert areas. In particular, it favours the more open savannahs and dense scrub along the edges of forests. In fact, it is equally at home in all savannah areas with good shrub and tree cover and even along the woody cover provided by watercourses that dissect the harshest of arid areas. While it reaches its highest densities in the low-lying Bushveld, it is also known to occur at altitudes of up to 1 000m.

Common, or generally referred to as grey duiker, are known to survive, even thrive, in areas of heavy human settlements and suburban areas as long as sufficient cover is available.

They are also known to be able to absorb fairly strong hunting pressure while continuing to maintain viable populations.

Surely, one of Africa’s true survivors!

SPECIES ID ‒ ANTELOPE

They are not only dependent on cover for their safety but also as a food resource. They are strictly browsers and utilise a wide variety of forbs and shrubs, feeding on leaves, young shoots, bark and fruit. Even when observed in grasslands adjoining their cover, they feed on forbs at ground level and not on the grass.

Due to its wide distribution range, it is not surprising that a large number of subspecies have been suggested, up to 19 at one stage, including six for South Africa.

The face is characterised by a dark band on the nasal bridge and, especially characteristic, is the tuft of long hairs between the short straight horns of the male that gives it the appearance of a unicorn. This feature is especially conspicuous in the female.

Photo © Pietman Muller Photo © Alta Oosthuizen

Whether all these subspecies are considered valid is uncertain.

Some of this confusion may have been caused by the differing colour patterns, ranging from tinges of yellow to rufous to basically grey. The standard colour pattern of the common duiker in the Lowveld regions is essentially grey and hence is most commonly referred to as the grey duiker. The upper reaches of the body are darker and become lighter towards the belly. The legs are similarly grey though somewhat darker on the front.

The common duiker is one of the so-called mini-antelopes of the Kruger National Park.

The males stand approximately 50cm at the shoulder and the female about 2cm higher. The males weigh roughly 18kg and the females 20kg.

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SPECIES ID ‒ ANTELOPE

Female grey duiker hiding in the bush.

Photo © Robbyh

When approached by danger the basic instinct of the duiker is to lie flat on the ground and ‘freeze’. If disturbed it will dart off in quick, jagged fashion jumping over obstacles and then ‘disappearing’ behind suitable cover, from which the process will repeat itself if the danger persists.

Both the males and females of the common duiker are essentially loners, only associating with one another during the mating cycle. After birth the lamb finds cover in a patch of tall grass or low shrubs and remains concealed until called up by the female for feeding. This continues for

some time during which the lamb spends increasingly more time with its mother. The young mature rapidly and females may have their first offspring by the age of eight months.

Female grey duiker.

Photo © Rudi Hulshof

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Twins have been reported but are exceptional. It is not certain when the males participate in reproduction for the first time but probably somewhat later than the females.

SPECIES ID ‒ ANTELOPE

Pre-orbital glands under the eyes clearly visible.

Photo © Chris Fourie

Grey duiker feeding.

Photo © Eco View

“Males and females may possibly have their own territories.”

Much has been reported on duiker in captivity but unfortunately not much on their social behaviour under natural situations. However, males fight viciously if placed in confined holding pens.

They have well-developed pre-orbital glands under the eyes, inter-digital glands in the front hooves, as well as inguinal glands – the range of glands used by various other antelopes for demarcating territories.

These factors, together with the strictly solitary nature of the adults, all suggest that the common duiker is territorial by nature and that males and females may possibly have their own territories.

Such a system would largely contribute to their inhabitation of well-wooded environments in relatively low densities and plays a major role in their remarkable ability to survive despite the adversity of human habitations.

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

COMPETITION! All KRUGER MAGAZINE Facebook members are invited to share their favourite spots with the community.

The TOP 3 winning entries are chosen by the KRUGER MAGAZINE executive team and will be announced on the KRUGER MAGAZINE Facebook group. Popular votes by members of the Facebook group will be taken into consideration in combination with engaging entries.

WELOVEKRUGER sponsors our popular AUTUMN 2022 FAVOURITE SPOTS competition!

Specialising in accommodation options in and around the Greater Kruger, breathtaking game drives and important and interesting information on the areas surrounding the Greater Kruger.

Prizes st

1 2 3

How do I enter?

prize – Two nights self-catering at Kruger Bush Rondavels for six guests sharing.

nd

prize – R2 000 voucher for the www.lekkeshop.com online store.

rd

prize – R1 000 voucher for the www.lekkeshop.com online store.

KrugerExplorer app – each of the three winners will win copies of this app, the ultimate wildlife, maps and routes encyclopaedia and guide to the KNP.

https://welovekruger.com/

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1

Become a member of our KRUGER MAGAZINE Facebook group to enter your favourite spot in the Greater Kruger.

Membership will also enable you to vote for your favourite entry!

2 3

Terms & conditions will be announced on Facebook on 15 December 2021.

The Top 3 entries will be published in our AUTUMN 2022 issue, to be distributed in March 2022.

facebook.com/KRUGER MAGAZINE group

FAVOURITE SPOTS

1

SUMMER 2021 WINNER – Shaun Etsebeth My favourite spot is the S114 road from H3 to S118

This stretch of road makes every bump and impala worth it!

African elephant (Loxodonta africana).

H

ere you travel on a dirt road running next to the Crocodile River for the first bit. Then you get these magnificent marula trees that can hold anything exciting.

Burchell’s zebra (Equus quagga burchellii).

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

Leopard (Panthera pardus).

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

Female kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros).

Blacksmith lapwing (Vanellus armatus).

“From sightings that can stay in your mind forever to just a normal day.”

We drive this road on a daily basis, and for sure it’s been different every single time, from sightings that can stay in your mind forever to just a normal day of impala and birds.

This road breaks off towards the S25 leading to Crocodile Bridge Gate, and then the S119 that goes to a small little bird hide called Gardenia hide. Then the S118 leads towards the H3, running along the Mlambane riverbed.

Always something interesting, trust me.

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

T

2

he Malelane area, specifically the S110, S114, S25, S118 and the S119, must definitely be one of my favourite spots in the Park, starting just south of Afsaal all the way to Berg-en-Dal and east to the Biyamiti Bush Camp. I like to call

SUMMER 2021 1st RUNNER-UP – Ruan Minnaar My favourite spot is the Malelane Area

it the golden triangle because of the abundant animal and bird species. Always be ready to expect the unexpected.

A morning I will never forget was 19 October 2019. My wife and I entered at Malelane Gate and decided to get some coffee at Berg-en-Dal.

We turned on the S110 and after about 3km from the H3 we heard a commotion next to the road.

Three lions caught a warthog and was busy suffocating it. We moved on after about 10 minutes when someone told us they saw a leopard stalking impala not far from us. As we arrived, we could see the leopard laying in ambush but

Male lion (Panthera leo).

Baby chacma baboon (Papio ursinus).

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

Leopard (Panthera pardus) relaxing in a tree.

Southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri).

Af rican barred owlet (Glaucidium capense).

unfortunately the impala saw her, and the leopard failed. The next moment someone asked us if we saw the big male lions that killed a buffalo apparently the previous night. It happened about 4km from Berg-en-Dal Gate. As we arrived there were lots of vehicles, so we decided to go and get coffee and come back to the sighting on our way out of Bergen-Dal. All of a sudden, impala came sliding over the tar road as they ran for their lives and not far behind them about 10 wild dogs were giving chase. We couldn’t keep up with them and we soon lost sight. We sat there and looked at each other in disbelief at everything that just happened that morning. That’s what makes the Kruger National Park great!

We’ve had many great sightings over the years, I wish I could share all of them. Here are some of my favourite photos from down south.

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

S

3

unset Dam at Lower Sabie is one of my favourite spots in the Kruger National Park. The dam accommodates a healthy population of fish, crocs, hippo and numerous bird species.

The waders are also a feast for the eye.

Good parking is available on the eastern and north-eastern

SUMMER 2021 2nd RUNNER-UP – Zies van Zyl My favourite spot is Sunset Dam

side of the dam, where one can sit and enjoy what happens in front of you as many species come and go throughout the day to quench their thirst. Here one can sit and observe the interaction between different species and see first-hand how successful the local hamerkop, grey heron and pied kingfishers are in catching their prey. The

hamerkop and grey heron make use of the hippos as their base to hunt from by riding on their backs and catching their prey alongside the hippo as it moves around. Even the crocs have perfected the art of catching small fish in great numbers. From time to time, viewers can also see how the resident fish eagle go about catching its prey with ease.

Female adult diederik cuckoo (Chrysococcyx caprius).

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FAVOURITE SPOTS

“Always be ready for action, which can happen at any time right in front of you!”

Pied kingf isher (Ceryle rudis).

Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius).

Scene at Sunset Dam.

This spot is a must for all keen wildlife photographers as one has a fairly unobstructed view with a good depth of field.

ALWAYS be ready for action, which can happen at any time right in front of you!

The Sabie Rest Camp is ‘within walking distance’ and have very good amenities and facilities. It is recommended though that you stay over at Lower Sabie Rest Camp in order to be at the dam at first light and see how the day unfolds.

African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) drinking.

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Zies van Zyl

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