The dawn was still cool as we rolled out of the lodge, the bush slowly waking around us. As always, someone asked the familiar question: “So, what are we looking for today?” And, as always, my answer stayed the same: “Let’s see what nature wants to show us.”

For a while, the road was quiet, the world painted in soft shades of gold and pink. Then, as if on cue, we rounded a bend and there it was: A secretary bird, perched high in a tree, perfectly silhouetted against a rising sun.

Moments like this are the true treasures of the bush. They’re the quiet surprises that stop you in your tracks, filling you with wonder and gratitude. These little gifts are what make every drive unforgettable and deeply humbling.

While out on a drive the other morning, we noticed a small dazzle of zebras standing in the golden light. Just as I slowed down, one of them dropped to its knees, rolled onto its back, and kicked up a cloud of dust. For a moment, the air was filled with flying soil and the sharp smell of dry earth. At first glance, it looked playful – almost as if the zebra was enjoying a carefree moment.

But rolling in dirt is more than just fun for them. It’s survival. The dust helps to suffocate and shake off ticks and other parasites that cling to their striped coats. It also works like a natural sunscreen, offering a layer of protection against the harsh African sun. On top of that, a good roll leaves them smelling less “zebra” and more “earth,” which can help confuse predators relying on scent.

Watching that zebra climb back onto its feet, shake off the excess dust, and trot off with its companions, I couldn’t help but smile. In such a simple act, I saw nature’s ingenuity; something as ordinary as dirt becoming a shield, a cleanser, and a comfort all at once.

The Sabi Sand is renowned for its dramatic leopard dynamics, and at Leopard Hills, we find ourselves in the heart of a fascinating and evershifting story. Over the past few weeks, tensions have escalated between two formidable males: tThe legendary Ravenscourt and the youthful, rising force known as Ntomi.

Their encounters have kept both guides and guests on edge, with each sighting offering another page in a story that is still being written. Ravenscourt, a dominant male for many years, has long commanded vast stretches of prime territory in the central parts of our reserve. Recently, however, age and pressure have begun to weigh on him. He has been seen spending increasingly more time around the lodges in the centre of the western sector, a strategic move to avoid unnecessary confrontation while maintaining a hold on what remains of his core territory.

In the south, Ntomi has been steadily carving out his place. Once a young male following in the footsteps of his mother, he has now matured into a strong, confident challenger. His recent mating activity with both Rixaka and Mahetalelo indicates his intentions – staking his dominance not just through territory, but also by securing the future of his lineage. With each passing day, his presence grows bolder, his calls louder, and his scent marks more frequent.

All this points towards an inevitable clash. Will Ravenscourt, seasoned by years of dominance and experience, summon enough strength to defend his reign? Or will Ntomi’s youth, strength, and ambition finally tip the balance in his favour?

For our guests, witnessing such a power struggle is a rare and extraordinary privilege. To observe these two leopards, each embodying resilience, instinct, and raw beauty, reminds us of the intricate balance of nature, where every dynasty eventually gives way to another.

One thing is certain: The outcome of this rivalry will shape the future of leopard-viewing at Leopard Hills for years to come. For now, the air is thick with anticipation, and the stage is set for a defining moment in the Sabi Sand.

WATCH FULL REEL HERE.

With a fairly recent change in the Bateleur pride’s dynamic and the loss of a member, it’s almost time to expand and grow the pride. At the moment they consist of three females, a mother and her two subadult daughters. With this being a great benefit to the pride as they don’t have to hunt massive animals to sustain themselves, it could also lead to their downfall if new prides move into the area. That being said, it’s time to start mating again after about two years of raising the youngsters to a point where they can take care of themselves.

The two Plains Camp males (the dominant coalition here in the Western Sector) have been showing a lot of interest in mating and determining when the older female will be ready for such an occasion. They do so by a process known as the flehmen grimace.

This process is activated by smelling the urine or genitals of a female, pulling back their upper lip, exposing the upper teeth which then activates the Jacobsons organ. This organ situated in the roof of their mouth allowing them to detect important smells and pheromones in order to gather chemical messages from the female and then determine whether they are ready to mate or not.

From our perspective as guides, this is very exciting because it means we get to see growth in one of our resident lion prides. Stay tuned for an update on their mating progress. Hopefully there will be some adorable little cubs soon enough.

If you’re interested in experiencing an awe-inspiring South African safari, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our reservations desk at book@leopardhills.com.

Alternatively, click here and make use of the quick and seamless online booking process and start planning your ideal vacation today.

We look forward to welcoming you to Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve.