Madikwe Hills Bush Bulletin | February 2025

The wild is ever-changing, and with each passing season, new stories unfold in Madikwe Game Reserve. Some are stories of triumph, while others remind us of the delicate balance of life in the bush. This past month has brought both sorrow and anticipation, from bidding farewell to a legendary lion to witnessing the next generation of Madikwe’s wildlife stepping into their roles.

A Farewell to Dark Mane Mahiwa

The Mahiwa brothers were originally a coalition of three, born in Madikwe in September 2015. Tragically, one brother did not survive past his youth, leaving the remaining two—nicknamed Blondie and Dark Mane—to establish their territory in the east. Over the years, they sired cubs within both the Kwena and Keitsumetsi prides, leaving behind a strong genetic legacy.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dark Mane Mahiwa. In mid-December, our guide Megan was the first to notice that something was wrong. Dark Mane appeared bloated and lethargic, spending his days lying in the sun near a waterhole, moving no more than 50 metres daily. Concerned for his wellbeing, the reserve intervened, and a vet administered a booster shot in hopes of aiding his recovery. However, after a week with no improvement, the debate on how best to assist him continued.

Tragically, circumstances took a turn for the worse. Blondie was engaged in a fierce battle with his son from the Keitsumetsi pride when Dark Mane attempted to join in. In the heat of the fight, Blondie turned on his brother, delivering a devastating blow that paralysed Dark Mane’s hind legs. The decision was made to move him to a boma—an enclosed area within the reserve—to give him a greater chance at recovery. Sadly, after a week with no signs of improvement, the vet made the difficult decision to euthanise him.

With Dark Mane gone, Blondie now rules the eastern part of the reserve alone. Only time will tell how the story of this once-mighty coalition will unfold.

The Young Keitsumetsi Male: A Lion’s Journey to Independence

Male lions typically reach sexual maturity between two and three years of age. When this happens, they are forced to leave their natal pride—either through active rejection by the females or a physical confrontation with the dominant male. This natural process prevents inbreeding and ensures genetic diversity within the lion population.

Now just over three years old, the young Keitsumetsi male has begun challenging his father for dominance. His time as a nomadic lion is fast approaching, and soon, he will set off on his journey to claim a territory of his own. The coming months will be pivotal as we watch his progress and see where his path leads within Madikwe.

Selati’s First Litter: A Harsh Lesson in Survival

Selati, a three-year-old female cheetah, recently gave birth to her first litter—five beautiful cubs—towards the end of December in the western part of the reserve. However, just three weeks later, she was seen alone in the east, no longer lactating. The assumption is that her cubs fell victim to lions or hyenas.

While this may seem like a devastating loss, it is, unfortunately, a common reality for cheetahs. Cubs face a staggering 95% mortality rate within their first six months, largely due to predation. Despite being exceptional hunters, cheetahs rank at the bottom of the predator hierarchy, often yielding to stronger competitors like lions, hyenas, and leopards.

As a first-time mother, Selati may not have been cautious enough in safeguarding her cubs. However, this experience will likely serve as a lesson, increasing the chances of success in her future litters. We remain hopeful for her next chapter.

Ostrich Courtship and the Cycle of Life

The ostrich breeding season is in full swing, bringing with it mesmerising displays of courtship. Males, adorned in striking black plumage, perform elaborate mating dances, fanning their wings in an effort to impress potential mates. Once paired, the females lay their enormous eggs in ground nests, with both parents diligently guarding them.

However, survival in the wild is never guaranteed. Jackals and even opportunistic cheetahs have been seen preying on ostrich chicks, a stark reminder of nature’s unforgiving cycle. Yet, witnessing an ostrich’s intricate courtship display remains a breathtaking experience for those lucky enough to see it.

Mischief Among the Baboons

One morning on safari, we paused near a rocky outcrop to observe a troop of baboons. The dominant male perched proudly on a boulder, surveying his surroundings—until chaos erupted.

A mischievous young baboon, full of energy and bravado, crept up behind him and gave his tail a sharp tug. The reaction was instant. The startled male leapt into the air, spinning around in fury as the young troublemaker dashed away. What followed was pure pandemonium—juveniles scattered in all directions, mothers clutched their infants, and one unfortunate baboon found himself tumbling unceremoniously down the rocks.

In the end, the little prankster escaped unscathed, while the dominant male sat fuming, undoubtedly plotting his revenge. Even in the animal kingdom, it seems, no leader is safe from a cheeky youngster!

As the seasons change in Madikwe, so too do the stories that shape this extraordinary wilderness. From the loss of a legendary lion to the promising futures of young predators, each moment reminds us of the resilience and beauty of the African bush. We invite you to experience these stories firsthand—whether through a game drive, a quiet moment at sunrise, or the thrill of an unexpected wildlife encounter.

The adventure continues at Madikwe Hills.