Wildlife

As summer slowly gives way to the first signs of winter, March has proven to be wildly drier this year than last. The grass is already withered to hues of yellow and gold and the once raging Klaserie river now slowly ebbs and winds through the reserve. The forecast of an ‘El Niño’ drought is ringing truer than ever…. However, it is no secret here at Klaserie Drift that our prime location alongside the river is particularly favoured by local wildlife in such times. With a bumper series of sightings this month, we could hardly disagree. Here are a few of our favourite moments over the last few weeks…

Did you know that most animals don’t have grandmothers? At least not in the way that we, as humans, do. Elephants, however, are one of the few species with whom we share this trait. Research shows that elephants born to young mothers are up to eight times more likely to survive if their grandmother is around. Wisened by years of child-rearing, leadership and life experience, elephant grandmothers are a critical support system and source of guidance to their families. Not unlike us.

Big cats hold a special place in our imagination, with lions and leopards often being the most sought-after sightings on safari. Revered for their incredible beauty and ferocious power, it’s no wonder that we are fascinated with them. Yet, as much as we dream of the perfect lion sighting or a bucket-list leopard in a tree, we rarely dare to think of seeing both at once.

As part of the world-renowed Greater Kruger, the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve – sometimes known as the Klaserie Game Reserve – is an unparalleled safari destination offering game drives in an unfenced, ‘Big Five’ wilderness. Primely located in the heart of the lowveld, this stunning nature haven borders the Timbavati Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park. However, with a strong ethos in conservation and ‘low-density’ tourism, the Klaserie Game Reserve has kept a low profile for many years – often being referred to as South Africa’s ‘best kept secret’. Let’s find out a little more about the place we call home…

Did you know the cheetah is not actually the fastest animal on the planet? That accolade actually belongs to the Peregrine falcon, which can dive at speeds reaching a colossal 390km/h! Keep reading to uncover the truth behind more common myths and misconceptions about African wildlife.