Page 43 - Discover Botswana 24th Edition 2024
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is not just the predators that inhabit the Savuti landscape. The majestic
Kori bustard, Africa’s heaviest flying bird, patrols the grasslands. During
the green season, carmine bee-eaters are often seen piggybacking on
this, Botswana’s national bird, as they search for an easy meal. There
are southern ground hornbills, Bateleur eagles, and then the theatrical
Korhaan displaying its aerial courting rituals. Savuti, with its intricate
tapestry of life and landscapes, offers an unrivalled safari experience.
In the vast expanse of Savuti, where the landscape is defined by open
plains and the mystery of the Savuti Marsh, rocky outcrops suddenly rise
dramatically, breaking the horizon and adding a complex layer of beauty
and history to the region. The southernmost of these hills, known as
Leopard Rock has, as its name suggests, been the denning sight for many
leopards over the years. Leopards may be spied resting in its many caves,
or on the side of its rocky clefts.
Facing page: An iconic, and rather imposing elephant on The Chobe River.
Above: As water levels drop in the Chobe River, tensions begin to rise. Fiercely
dominant male hippos defend their patch, as rival males try to secure their
own place along the river. Two males try to intimidate each other by opening
their mouths wide to display their huge teeth and jaws. As the fight escalates,
spit begins to fly and a vocal standoff takes place. When all else fails, fighting
begins, at times a deadly exchange.
Left: Savute offers up some of the greatest leopard viewing in the park. Very
early mornings and late afternoons will increase your chances of seeing these
beautiful cats.










































































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