Floods and Wildlife - What happens when the river changes

Animals Sense Change Before We Do

Time and again, studies have shown that wildlife is far more deeply attuned to environmental cues than we are. Subtle shifts in air pressure, soil moisture, water flow, and even distant rainfall patterns signal change well in advance. Many animals move to higher ground long before flooding becomes visible to us, following instincts shaped over generations.

Large, mobile species such as elephants, buffalo, and giraffe are often able to relocate easily, while smaller animals rely on rocky outcrops, vegetation, or short bursts of movement to escape rising water. This early response is one of the reasons we don’t always see widespread panic during floods. To wildlife, these events are not anomalies - they are a natural part of this ecosystem.

Floods Bring Challenges and Renewal

That said, floods can still pose challenges, particularly when they are extreme or prolonged. In low-lying areas, small mammals, reptiles, and ground-dwelling insects are more vulnerable. Poorly placed nests and dens may be washed away and disrupted habitats can force animals to adjust their movements and routines. Yet, despite all this, the vast majority of wildlife will escape unscathed.

At Klaserie Drift, though our river bridge is currently submerged, water levels are dropping every day. The three dominant male lions, separated from the resident pride, can be seen patrolling along the riverbanks near the lodge, determined to recover their territory. It won’t be long before they can cross once more and reassert their dominance over central Klaserie.

Already, signs of renewal are everywhere. Dung beetles are returning in their droves, fresh growth emerges along the riverbanks, and opportunistic birds take advantage of newly accessible feeding areas. The bush, as it always does, adapts.

Rising waters have brought unexpected moments of beauty, too. Hippos dozing on newly formed sandbanks below camp - a rare and welcome sight - and even a flock of flamingos wading through the shallows, much to our astonishment. In the long term, nutrient-rich sediment deposits act like a natural fertiliser, boosting plant growth which, in turn, supports insects, herbivores, and ultimately predators higher up the food chain.

Community Comes Together

For those of us living and working here, times like these also highlight the strength of our community. We want to express a special thank you to our team, who have shown unwavering commitment. They have navigated the challenges of the floods with calm confidence - sharing resources, reassuring guests, and keeping everything running smoothly.

Here in the Klaserie, the rivers will continue to recede, crossings will reopen, and the landscape will knit itself back together. In the meantime, we are seizing the opportunity to pause after the bustle of a very full festive season. So, when normality does return, the bush will be greener and more fertile, and our staff will be refreshed and full of new stories.