Large predators always have an ability to evoke primaeval feelings of fear, respect and intrigue.
Under the cloak of darkness there are wars driven by competition, that are largely a mystery to us diurnal animals. Whatever the circumstances, seeing these animals, or hearing them call at night, stirs something within us that leaves us in awe and always hungering for more.
On a recent safari in the Zambezi Valley we were spoiled with sightings of some of Africa’s most powerful predators.
On one occasion we encountered a clan of thirty-one hyaena’s being held off a kill by a big male lion.
On another occasion we found two lionesses and their three cubs tucking into a kudu cow.
On different occasions during the safari we encountered a pack of twenty-one wild dogs, consisting of twelve adults and nine puppies. One of the dogs had a large bite-sized chunk out of his flank… probably a testimony to a skirmish with hyaenas.
Dave