Wildlife

Almost everyone has heard of the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant—the most dangerous animals to approach on foot and the top sightings for many safari-goers. But have you heard of the Ugly Five? These creatures may not win any beauty contests, but they’re full of character and play crucial roles in the ecosystem! Let’s dive into why they deserve your attention on safari:

Perhaps more than any other animal, the prehistoric-looking rhinoceros has become a beacon for the plight to save Africa’s endangered wildlife. But how well do you really know these iconic animals? Let’s dive in to some fun facts and fictions on rhinos. (Or, head to the bottom to read more about rhino conservation!)

As summer slowly gives way to the first signs of winter, March has proven to be wildly drier this year than last. The grass is already withered to hues of yellow and gold and the once raging Klaserie river now slowly ebbs and winds through the reserve. The forecast of an ‘El Niño’ drought is ringing truer than ever…. However, it is no secret here at Klaserie Drift that our prime location alongside the river is particularly favoured by local wildlife in such times. With a bumper series of sightings this month, we could hardly disagree. Here are a few of our favourite moments over the last few weeks…

Did you know that most animals don’t have grandmothers? At least not in the way that we, as humans, do. Elephants, however, are one of the few species with whom we share this trait. Research shows that elephants born to young mothers are up to eight times more likely to survive if their grandmother is around. Wisened by years of child-rearing, leadership and life experience, elephant grandmothers are a critical support system and source of guidance to their families. Not unlike us.

Big cats hold a special place in our imagination, with lions and leopards often being the most sought-after sightings on safari. Revered for their incredible beauty and ferocious power, it’s no wonder that we are fascinated with them. Yet, as much as we dream of the perfect lion sighting or a bucket-list leopard in a tree, we rarely dare to think of seeing both at once.