Game Report: Green Season Babies

1/1/2008

Jacks and San Camp - the Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana -

After months of peaceful living the resident meerkat clan has experienced a time of upheaval. The dominant female has been ousted from her position of privilege by one of her daughters who had obviously decided it was her time to "rule the roost." The last sight of the old female was the image of her leading her three young pups into the bush, her future now uncertain. The good news is that the new dominant female is already pregnant and, if all goes well, is expecting her litter in April.

Also, the March issue of Condé Nast Traveller features director Anthony Minghella's account of his experiences during the filming of the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency in Botswana. Anthony and the crew spent quite some time filming with the Jack's Camp meerkats and the Bushmen Guides. His description of the Makgadikgadi Pans creates a vivid picture of this great natural wonder.

Phinda - KwaZulu Natal, South Africa -

We are pleased to report the birth of a black rhino calf on Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal! On the ninth of February Zama Ncube and Thomas Khumalo, two of Phinda's 'black rhino monitors, discovered the tiny tracks together with the mothers' during their regular patrols in the Zuka hills.

The South Luangwa, Zambia -

Robin Pope Safaris reports that the "emerald season" is thriving in the South Luangwa, Zambia. Bounding baby Impala, zebra or little hippos all exploring their first days of life, along with an influx of migratory birds, makes this time of year truly special in the Valley.

Highveld Farm - Middle Haddam, Connecticut -

On 20 February 2008 we welcomed William Radcliffe Faber into the world. He was 8 pounds 2 ounces and 21 inches long and is growing so quickly! He loves hiking with mom and dad in the forest around our home and is showing a great affinity for nature already.