This Week at Angama #359

The Sanctuary was vibrant and buzzing with life in the last week of the year. As the green season transforms every corner into a lush paradise teeming with energy, there is a sense of renewal and vitality. The weavers are among the most delightful spectacles, particularly enamoured with abundant green grass. These industrious birds can be seen busily constructing their intricate nests on nearly every acacia branch and tree you pass.

At the lodge, the golden-backed weaver has become the star attraction, putting on a mesmerising display at the turning circle and along the pathways. Visitors have been pausing to watch male weavers meticulously craft their nests, each showing their dedication and skill. The courtship ritual is captivating— if a female approves of the nest, she will lay her eggs there, but if she doesn’t, the nest will be torn apart.

Despite their small size, these birds demonstrate an extraordinary ability to weave nests that attach securely to branches, even in the face of strong winds or rain. Their claws, uniquely adapted for gripping, allow them to hang upside down while working, weaving strands of grass and leaves with precision and speed.

The lionesses that have been seen in Kimana Sanctuary officially have names. Memusi has a cut tail and is less shy of humans of the two. In contrast, Noltulali has a full tail and is especially shy of humans. It’s been confirmed that they’re nearing the end of their pregnancies, and their secretive movements suggest they are searching for a secure den, which is a vital task to ensure the safety of their cubs once they are born. These dens must be well-hidden to protect the newborns from potential predators and the resident males, Osunash and Male 263.

Without a strong connection to the lionesses, both males risk killing cubs they encounter to assert dominance and bring the lionesses back into heat. This underscores the delicate balance of power and survival in the wild.

The tension between Osunash and Male 263 is palpable, especially around the lionesses. Their frequent and intense clashes reveal a fierce rivalry fuelled by jealousy and competition. Both males vie for control over the females, hoping to secure their favour and establish dominance. Male 263, the elder, is determined to secure his position as the dominant male of this fledgling pride. However, Osunash, the territory's original claimant, refuses to yield, resulting in constant conflict.

As the drama unfolds, it highlights the intricate dynamics of lion social structures, where power struggles and maternal instincts coexist. The coming weeks will be critical, as the lionesses’ choice of a secure den and their ability to evade the males could determine the fate of their cubs. For now, we are all watching and waiting for the arrival of new life.

Ganesh and Parsoloi arrived on cue this week, delighting the welcoming committee and the guests with their majestic presence. Their calm and composed demeanour, even in such close proximity to humans, never fails to warm hearts and leave a lasting impression.

In recent years, the Sanctuary has become a haven for the Super Tuskers, spending longer periods of time within its boundaries. Their extended stays show the success of conservation practices and the ecosystem’s stability in meeting their safety, food, and water needs. Watching these gentle giants roam freely across the landscape, their immense tusks glinting in the sunlight, reminds us of our critical role in protecting such rare and iconic animals.

For the guests, encounters with these Super Tuskers are often transformative — moments that deepen their appreciation for wildlife and inspire a commitment to conservation. Our bond with them is not just about coexistence; it’s a partnership rooted in respect, care, and a shared sense of belonging.

The scarlet dragonfly is strikingly beautiful. Its vivid red body and delicate, gossamer wings bring a fiery elegance to the landscape as it gracefully poises itself on dry foliage or darts across the water's edge. Its bold colouration isn't only dazzling but essential to attract mates.

The northern carmine bee-eater also brings a flair and enchants with its vibrant blend of turquoise-blue head, crimson-pink plumage, and strikingly long tail. This spectacular bird is a seasonal traveller, journeying from Ethiopia and Somalia to grace the Sanctuary during its annual migration.

Their arrival marks a seasonal highlight and a reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems across vast distances. These birds bring beauty and a story of endurance and survival that spans continents. Together with the scarlet dragonfly, they add a kaleidoscope of brilliance to the Sanctuary. -Japheth Supeyo

Hippos are fiercely territorial and can become aggressive when defending their space from rival males. On land, however, they tend to be less confrontational, particularly when foraging for food at night. A lone male venturing out under the scorching sun can sometimes signal that he has been ousted from a pod by a more dominant male. While out on a drive, we noticed a hippo cautiously approaching the river and making a bold splash, announcing his return.

We watched as the dominant male hippo quickly sprang into action in the water's realm, flicking his tail to spread waste as a warning signal. With jaws wide open, he asserted his presence. However, the warning went unheeded, leading to a tense standoff. Both males sized each other up, inching closer to the riverbank. Finally, the breaking point was reached as the two behemoths collided, their massive bodies clashing with powerful jaws and sharp tusks. The impact was so intense that one hippo was momentarily lifted off the ground. Despite the brevity of the battle, the hippo successfully defended his territory and once more claimed his title as the dominant male.

Pin-tailed whydahs are fascinating birds with unique breeding behaviours. Males are territorial and exhibit striking plumage during the breeding season, with long tail feathers and a vibrant red bill designed to attract females. The male's long tail is central to displaying their courtship. They perform a dance where they hover above females, flicking their tails up and down, continuous singing, circular flights, and tail vibrations — hoping to impress potential mates.

A remarkable aspect of their breeding is brood parasitism. Female whydahs lay their eggs in the nests of smaller bird species, such as waxbills. The host birds unknowingly raise the whydah chicks alongside their own, as the whydah eggs mimic the size and appearance of the host species' eggs. This strategy enables the whydahs to reproduce without building nests or caring for their young themselves.

About a month ago, we spotted the three Kogatende boys and saw they were suffering from mange and needed interventional vet treatment. This week, Angama guest Jens was lucky enough to see them, and they seem to be bouncing back to good health.

The rivalry between lions and hyenas is ancient and fierce, fuelled by competition for food and territory. While both species scavenge when opportunities arise, lions often dominate due to their size and strength, taking control from hyenas or vultures at a carcass. However, a small or weakened pride may be outmatched by hyenas. Large carcasses, like that of an elephant, inevitably attract both, leading to intense conflict.

In this case, two young lions — one male and one female — were left to defend the remains. Taking advantage of their superior numbers, the hyenas relentlessly harassed the young lions, using intimidation tactics like surrounding them, snapping at them, and emitting loud whooping sounds. The female lion, unable to withstand the constant barrage, eventually retreated into the bushes. The male lion tried to hold his ground, but the pressure was too much for him, leaving the hyenas and vultures to squabble over the carcass.

Over the years, the beloved Angama lioness has honed impressive techniques as a solitary hunter, stalking prey with leopard-like precision and climbing trees for better vantage points. Though less agile than leopards, lions can scale low-branching trees for comfort, safety, or a strategic edge. Tree climbing helps them escape the heat, avoid pests like tsetse flies, and stay out of reach of threats like hyenas. Her daughter often follows her lead, joining her in the trees, while the male lion, uninterested in climbing, prefers to rest peacefully beneath.

The Salt Lick male also appeared this week posing on a tree. He is one of the older leopards in The Triangle, and we appreciate that he never shies away from prying eyes. -Robert Sayialel