Lesser-Known Animals You Can Spot on Safari
When you think of a safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve, the first animals that come to mind are probably the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalos. But there’s so much more to see in this incredible reserve. The Timbavati is home to a wealth of lesser-known animals that are just as fascinating and beautiful as their more famous counterparts. Here are a few of the secret world’s inhabitants you might spot on your safari.
Aardvarks – These odd-looking animals are rarely seen during the day, as they spend most of their time underground in their burrows. However, they are occasionally spotted at night, when they emerge to forage for food. Aardvarks are nocturnal and have long, sticky tongues that they use to eat ants and termites.
African Wild Dogs – Also known as painted dogs, these beautiful animals are some of the most efficient hunters in the African bush. They live in packs and work together to bring down prey, which can include animals much larger than themselves. African wild dogs are endangered, so spotting them in the Timbavati is a real treat.
Civets – Civets are small, nocturnal mammals that are often mistaken for cats. They have distinctive markings and long, ringed tails. Civets are omnivorous and will eat everything from insects to fruit to small mammals.
Honey Badgers – Honey badgers are tough, tenacious animals that are known for their ferocity. They are fearless and will take on animals much larger than themselves, including lions. Honey badgers are also intelligent and have been known to use tools to access food.
Pangolins – These adorable animals are covered in scales and are sometimes called scaly anteaters. They are nocturnal and feed primarily on ants and termites. Unfortunately, pangolins are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
Sable Antelopes – These majestic antelopes are known for their striking black coats and curved horns. They are relatively rare and are not often seen on safari, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them grazing in the grasslands.
Water Monitors – These large lizards are often seen basking in the sun along rivers and waterholes. They are excellent swimmers and will dive underwater to catch fish and other aquatic prey.
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These are just a few of the many lesser-known animals you might spot on your safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, exploring the secret world of the Timbavati from Kambaku Lodges is an unforgettable experience. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready – you never know what you might see!
