April wildlife sightings at Xigera

Our land basks in the much-needed hydration from the wet season here at Xigera Safari Lodge, fuelled by rainwater from Angola’s verdant highlands, which travels over 1,700km to reach the Okavango Delta. We find ourselves immersed in a unique abundance. Amidst this natural splendour, we have been fortunate to capture truly incredible animal encounters throughout this month at Xigera.

Captured by Ben

With this abundance comes the action, a vulture lurking, patiently awaiting the opportune moment for a predator to make its kill, eager to pick up the scraps left from their feast.

Captured by Ike

Captured by Ben

The remarkable resilience of the Okavango Delta’s wildlife shines brightly in the form of a leopard. Despite facing adversity with only one eye, this female leopard perseveres and thrives in her ability to hunt and successfully raise her cubs. Her return after a year's absence brings a welcome surprise to both our guests and guides.

Captured by Ike

This month presented unexpected joy when the wild dogs chose to den with us on our private concession in April, catching us off guard. Observing the alpha female, visibly pregnant, was an unexpected twist, considering that wild dogs typically breed in June once a year.

Captured by Ike

The Lion cubs' recent fascination with porcupines has diverted their attention from their usual hunts. An enthusiastic cub even returned to its mother sporting a porcupine quill stuck to its body, an important lesson learned about the need for caution when encountering these spiky creatures during hunts.

Captured by Ike

Captured by Ike

Two magnificent male Lions crossed onto Xigera's eastern side. Attracted by the scent of our females, they dashed off in hot pursuit of the lioness. 

Captured by Ben

The elusive and captivating Pel's Fishing Owls inhabit the expansive Okavango Delta, their secretive nature makes sightings scarce even in the most ideal habitats. With only an estimated 100 pairs scattered throughout an area equivalent in size to New Jersey, encountering these majestic birds is a rare privilege.

As summer draws to a close, It has brought forth a wealth of extraordinary sightings and exhilarating encounters for our guests. With winter on the horizon in May, we're eagerly anticipating the adventures awaiting us in the Okavango Delta.