Image by Em Gatland.
The Klaserie is on fire with wildlife activity and excitement, and lucky for us, photographer Em Gatland has been hanging out at Africa on Foot capturing it all! Recently, Em and JD headed out in search of lions, and what they got was an unexpected thrill. JD writes about the time the Africa on Foot guests saw the Breakaway Ross Pride lionesses kill a warthog. Check it out…
A day of high drama, tension, failure, and ultimately, success! The Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp rangers, JD, and photographer, Em Gatland had been tracing the spoor to find the Breakaway Ross Pride lionesses to film. Located at Twin Pans early that morning where there was water to drink, the lionesses were looking very hungry and alert – up and on the move. Conditions were great, and these females are renowned and excellent hunters; Em & JD followed the 2 as they set off on the prowl.
We came across a herd of impala within 20 metres of the drainage line and both lionesses exhibited a charging run. Alas, it was a complete miss. The lionesses moved westwards towards some giraffe in the tree line. Em & JD rushed the film vehicle into a closer position to see if the lions would attempt to take down the giraffe. Patrick, guide at Africa on Foot, joins the search party and suddenly, warthogs emerged from the thickets at full escape speed. We waited close by to hear for any alarm calls or death rattle sounds… Then, fearful and terrified squealing some 200 metres away signalled a warthog had been caught! We rushed towards the sound to find the Ross Pride lionesses killing a large male warthog. Kill Zone: Swart Dam. Success!
The drama continued as the lionesses fed; epic and awesome, growling and snarling. And, in the death of the one, life given to the other.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Image by Em Gatland.
Amazing Game Viewing in the Klaserie