Makalolo Plains Camp - June 2009
09 Jul 2009
Weather
June has generally been quite temperate this year, with it being rather chilly in the early morning and evenings once the sun has set. For a few days we had some true winter weather, with cool winds from the south-east. Frost and mists are a common occurrence right now in the vegetated Kalahari savannah of Hwange. In June though this came with very unusual light showers and afternoon downpours. The average minimum temperatures were in the doldrums hovering around 3°C, with the afternoons warming considerably and reaching 28°C. We received 17mm of rain over the three days of overcast weather.
Striking contrasts in the panoramic colours displayed in the clear skies are breathtaking, ranging from crimson and mauve to an opaque pink and finally the deep blue which is magnificently unblemished this time of the year.
Vegetation and Surroundings
The Linkwasha Vlei is now sparse with burgundy and bronze bush cover, as the shrubs and bush dry out. It is a beautiful sight to behold as one arrives in the area, with the rolling hills extending to the horizon, providing amazing sunsets from places such as Madison Pan. In front of Makalolo Plains Camp the bush has dried out considerably and allows vast views of the great open plain.
The waterholes are hives of activity as greenery remains around these sites, thus attracting large numbers of wildlife. The elephants have also since embarked on their paths of destruction, which is usual for this time of the year as they tear and rip at the remaining succulent branches on combretums and acacia trees. As they carry out this annual undertaking we see the bush thinning out considerably from the thick woodland which prevailed during the summer, rainy season.
Wildlife
Rhino # 43 was sighted in front of camp on the 16th, and was viewed for several hours by guests visiting at neighbouring Little Makalolo Camp. It was drinking from several pans and then wandering off into the cover of the woodland for the night. There have been large herds of buffalo meandering across the concession as they seek the refreshment of mud rolling in the waterholes as well as satisfying their thirst.
Not far behind these large herds are several coalitions of opportunistic lion prides, which are preying off unfortunate members of the herd. There was also a case of some hyaena which raided a lion kill - eight hyaena drove the lions from their kudu kill! This was just outside camp and when the staff heard the commotion they rushed out to find these cats being driven off their meal and the hyaena being the triumphant scavengers.
Often seen are herds of kudu, waterbuck and eland drinking from the waterhole in view of the Makalolo Plains Camp. We often hear our resident hyaena calling through the night and then had the privilege of seeing it during the daytime. It was seen from the veranda area of Room 4. We have also frequently heard the 'grating' call of a leopard that has found sanctuary in the area.
Birds and Birding
A flock of Arrow-marked Babblers are nesting in the vicinity of camp enjoying the spoils and leftovers from our meals. Their group behaviour has become as entertaining to watch as that of the baboons. We have also had numerous Crimson-breasted Shrikes around camp, as well as the Eastern Paradise Whydahs. Grey Crowned Cranes and Blacksmith Lapwings are regulars at the waterhole too and they keep the numbers of frogs and water-breeding insects in check.
Guest Comments
'What a lovely spot. The view day and night is spectacular. The hospitality here was great. We hope to return one day!' The Leupps - USA
'We couldn't agree more! (to the above comment). The staff are what make Makalolo Plains so special! Wonderful experience - we needed more than two nights! The unseasonal rains made it difficult to view the usual game animals, but we still saw a lot! Thank you all.' Bill and Jeannie - USA
'Thank you so much for taking us on a magical journey through Africa - from the animals, the African food to most especially the warm and welcoming people! Our wish is that our children and grandchildren will follow in our footsteps and also experience the hospitality shown to us by the staff at Makalolo Plains! We will miss all of you and especially Lewis, our humorous and experienced guide!' The Smiths - USA
Camp Staff
Camp Managers: Willem And Trish Botha
Hwange Mascot: Trevor Botha
Central Storesman: Mxolisi Sibanda
Wildlife Researcher: Jaelle Claypole
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