Wilderness Chitabe news – July-August 2026

One of the highlights of recent times has been the arrival of a new cheetah female with two cubs. They have been spending considerable time on the Chitabe Concession, giving guides and guests repeated opportunities to observe them.

Supermom, meanwhile, continues to be seen with her single cub. These two little cheetah families consistently provide excellent entertainment value for guests.

There have been some dramatic predator encounters during this peak season. Rose, one of the resident female leopards, successfully brought down a young giraffe, only to have the Matsebe Pride of more than 20 lions arrive and steal her kill. Rose made a hasty retreat up a tree, and watched the commotion from the safety of a high branch.

 
Chitabe is renowned for its multiple resident leopards, and sightings did not disappoint this month. The dominant male Mojeremane was observed resting in dense sage bushes as well as heading into the inundated floodplain, and mating with Rose over a few days.

The lions were also observed independently of the aforementioned encounter with Rose. Three pride males were photographed on patrol, including while moving through the deep water on the floodplains.

Some of the most interesting observations during the period involved less predictable interactions between species. On one occasion, a jackal was observed nibbling and then grooming a hyena. Almost unheard of!

The new cheetah family was also seen checking out a scent post most likely used by other cheetah on the concession.  

Birdlife at Chitabe is also always notable, and it wouldn’t be a day on safari without spotting a lilac-breasted roller! Other exciting sightings included both martial and bateleur eagles.