This Week at Angama #367

The world's largest bird is the ostrich, and it's especially notable for its reproduction and nesting behaviours. Its nests, often called 'dump nests', are shallow scrapped-out depressions in the ground designed to keep eggs in place. Males take charge of selecting and building the nests, sometimes opting for easily noticeable locations like this one in Kimana Sanctuary, not far from the road.

These birds prefer communal nesting, with multiple females laying their eggs in a shared nest. The dominant female would lay her eggs first and place them in the middle to ensure a greater chance of survival. These nests typically contain up to twenty eggs; this week, we saw one with nineteen. 

Incubation lasts approximately 42 to 46 days, and both the male and female ostriches play a role in caregiving, a strategy that reduces predator detection. Contrary to the belief that females incubate during the day and males during the night, we have observed the pair taking turns during the day. The chicks hatch feathered with open eyes and strong legs. We've been watching the nest daily and seeing chicks start coming out of their shells, from one to two to eight, and hopefully soon, all the eggs will hatch. 

Wildebeest calving season is in full swing in the Amboseli ecosystem, aligning with the Great Migration’s annual birthing period between January and March in the Serengeti. Unlike their migratory counterparts, who give birth in large, synchronised groups in open areas, non-migratory wildebeests have less of a pattern, with calves being born all year round, depending on favourable conditions.

They often give birth in dense vegetation to enhance survival before rejoining the group, relying on smaller group protection rather than the sheer numbers seen in larger herds.

Two species of hyenas inhabit Amboseli National Park and the Sanctuary: the striped hyena and the spotted hyena. These two distinct species differ in appearance, behaviour, and social structure.

The lesser-seen and more nocturnal striped hyena is smaller and more slender, with a greyish or yellowish coat marked by black stripes. It has long, pointed ears and a prominent mane along its back, which sometimes raises when threatened. Unlike the highly social and dominant spotted hyena, the striped hyena is primarily solitary, living alone or in small family groups, and is generally less aggressive.

This week, we continue to enjoy the presence of the mother cheetah and her three sub-adult cubs, which we featured in our last blog. The collaboration between Angama Amboseli and the Big Life Foundation plays a vital role in maintaining the Sanctuary as a safe and open space for wildlife. We remain hopeful that these cheetahs will eventually make this their home.

As an area for birdlife, we have had the privilege of capturing some truly exceptional avian species. There's always a flurry of activity in and around the trees, from the small waxbills to the larger herons.— Robert Sayialel

Guide Robert picked up guests from the airstrip when a crackle over the radio suddenly caught their attention — a leopard had been spotted! Disbelief set in as it was only fifteen minutes into the safari, and they were already in for a beautiful sighting, but even better, the leopard had made a kill. 

In silence, everyone watched as the leopard began to feast. Overhead, eagles appeared, slowly circling the scene, drawn by the promise of a meal. Meanwhile, a chorus of alarm calls came from the distance — the other impalas, huddled together, were sounding the warning. 

A new pair of cheetahs were recently spotted roaming just below the Oloololo Escarpment. Guide Derrick and his guests had the opportunity to observe them at dusk as they scanned the area for prey. Among the guests was Elly, who captured stunning photos of the pair perched atop a termite mound. She was eager to learn photography and showed remarkable passion and improvement within two days of renting a camera from the Photographic Studio.

Curious about the cheetahs' identities, we contacted the Mara Meru Cheetah Project, but the cats weren't in their database either. We suspect they migrated from the northern conservancies or the Serengeti, eventually reaching the same region as the two Kichwa Tembo males who are also new in the area. The pair lingered for a few days before disappearing, likely returning to their original range.

Since cheetahs are non-territorial, they roam vast distances in search of mates, much like the three Kotagende males, who recently crossed the Mara River on a similar quest before returning to their usual territory near the border. The three brothers were later found resting during the midday heat. Three hours later, Guide Fred Campo came across the brother feasting on topi kill.

As we drove toward the Purungat Bridge, searching for hippos and crocodiles along the Mara River, we stumbled upon the Inselberg males feasting on a freshly killed hippo. These magnificent brothers, the oldest lions in the Mara Triangle ecosystem, currently reign over the Maji Machafu pride, which boasts at least six cubs. With their majestic, full manes and undeniable strength, their genes are crucial for the future of the lion population in this region. 

Taking down a hippo is no small feat. These formidable creatures are among the most dangerous in the wild, with thick hides and immense strength. But the odds were in the favour of this powerful trio, backed by their lionesses.

The battle must have been intense, likely unfolding under the cover of darkness, but their success meant an abundant meal that could sustain them for up to a week. Vultures and hyenas lingered in the distance, waiting for their turn, while the lions, bellies already full, walked away to lay down in a nearby bush, guarding their prize.

As we returned to camp, we came upon the Egyptian Pride piled up and in deep slumber. Lions spend much of their time dozing, reserving their energy for nighttime pursuits. Watching them laze in the heat of the day, often splayed out in languid bliss, it's easy to forget how powerful and formidable these cats can be when the situation calls for it. 

The enigmatic Namaqua dove, dark above and pale below, makes its presence known in subtle yet unforgettable ways. The male, sporting a black mask and a yellow-orange bill, looks brushed by midnight against the sunrise. The female, plainer with a dark bill, echoes his charm. In flight, their wings flash a vivid rufous. Their signature 'hoo-oooooo' call across the landscape sets them apart from all other doves roaming the Mara.  

Tucked away in the fringes of our forested pockets, the African emerald cuckoo looks like a hidden jewel. The male shines in dazzling green with a golden yellow belly. The female is subdued, displaying intricate barring and subtle green highlights over a warm-toned back.

These birds are seldom seen but easily recognised by their distinctive 'pre-ty, gear-gio' call; this elusive canopy dweller lacks the typical white eyebrow or throat of its relatives, making every sighting a rare and treasured experience. 

Along the water’s edge, the malachite kingfisher shimmers, its brilliant orange underparts — or a white belly — catching the light in some areas. Found in streams, rivers, lakes, and even rice paddies, it waits in silent vigilance before diving with precision for prey. Its sharp 'tshik' call echoes as it darts through the air. Though similar to the African pygmy-kingfisher, its larger size, distinct facial markings, and deep connection to water make it unmistakable. —Japheth Supeyo