Savute Large Predator Update

With the split up of the big Lion Pride in the Savute area in September 2006, the other large predator numbers in the area have had the opportunity to increase. Normally the area can only sustain a certain amount of large predators. Due to the aggressive nature of the Lions, as well as a pride size of 36 animals, they displaced the majority of the other large predators from the area.

After a big fire in the Mababe area, south of Savute, two large males from that area moved into the Savute area. They killed the big dominant male of the old pride, resulting in them splitting up and moving into small groups, all around the area.

This old pride had a particular hate for Hyenas, resulting in their complete decimation in the Savute area. The Hyenas were one of the first to make a improved recovery in numbers after the Lion pride split up. Although still quite skittish, we regularly see a group of five Hyenas around the camp. Their tracks are now seen regularly around the Savute area and their calls form part of the nightly chorus.

All around Africa, the African Wild Dog is considered to be endagered. For a long time there were no sightings around the Savute area. Now, for the first time in many years, we are seeing them on a regular basis, often hunting around the camp as well as in areas directly to the north of camp. The pack currently consist of three adults and four sub-adults. Unfortunately a fifth juvenile has died. The current alpha female is heavily pregnant, so soon again another batch of youngsters should be encountered within the Savute area. As the pack size increases, their hunting success rate also increase, giving them a better chance for survival in this harsh environment.

For about two years, two brothers were the only Cheetah in the area. During the last two months another female and a very large male has been seen around the Savute Marsh. Cheetah find life especially difficult when there are a lot of Lions in the area. Although the are very fast, they take a long period (up to 15 minutes) after a kill before they are rested enough to start feeding. The scent of blood, as well as the bleating of the prey often attract the Lion to the kill, resulting in the Cheetah loosing their kill to the more aggressive Lions.

So even though the Lions of Savute are not as dominant as they once were, their reduced pride size is leading to an increase of other large predators in the area. For how long this would remain true remains to be seen. The question is: when the Mababe males are deposed of, will the pride come together again and what will the impact then be on the other large predators of Savute? Only time will tell….

Story Submitted by Kobus - Savute Safari Lodge Manager