Up the creek without a lion - 09:44 am
26 May 2009
With the Xakanaxa lion pride holed up in the mopane again, we though that we would take the opportunity to head into the permanent swamp that lies to the north of the area.
The Okavango delta is a delicate and complex eco-system that comprises many different habitats and terrains. The core of the delta is a permanent swamp that consists of deep channels lined with floating papyrus banks, vast floodplains and an array of islands ranging in size from a small termite mound to several square kilometers.
Due to the wet terrain, one does not find much game in these areas. The only mammals one sees are a few semi-aquatic red lechwe inhabiting the floodplains and the odd elephant moving from one island to another. The bird-life is however prolific and a vast array of species line the channels. African fish-eagles, their calls so iconic to the delta, wait on the edges of the channels looking for potential prey. Little bee-eaters and pied kingfishers perch briefly on reeds and papyrus keeping their eyes out for potential prey. A marsh harrier rests on a dead tree.
Winter is kicking in here now and certain parts of these floodplain areas have turned into a kaleidoscope of colours. Verdant aquatic vegetation mixes with deep burgundy selinda grass while bright yellow flowers punctuate these plains.
We spend so much time following the lions and other predators in this area and today’s exploration of the waterways of Moremi was a pleasant change.
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