December 2025

Pamushana

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Pamushana: December 2025

Our experiences as Professional Guides in the Lowveld of Zimbabwe unfold in a region rich in biodiversity, rugged landscapes, and deep cultural heritage. From the mopane woodlands to the baobab-dotted valleys, the region offers encounters with mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, and the subtle rhythms of life often unnoticed. As guides, each day brings new stories, tracks to follow, and lessons from the wild. This journal serves as a record of our observations, guiding moments, and reflections shaped by the land, the wildlife, and the people we meet along the way.
A sightings snapshot for December follows:
Lions
  • The Chiredzi River Pride has crossed over to the Malilangwe side and has been seen frequently in Chikwete area. Only two cubs remain, and they are growing quickly.
  • The Nduna Pride is also staying within that same area and not moving far, likely because food is currently abundant.
Leopards
  • A male and female have been seen on two different days near the Bush Dinner site. On one occasion the female was carrying a cub in her mouth, moving toward a nearby rocky outcrop.
African wild dogs
  • A pack was seen once at the beginning of the month of December, before the heavy rains started. There is still a good chance of finding them because their main prey, impalas, are spending most of their time in the open areas.
Elephants
  • Big herds of elephants have shifted across the Malilangwe reserve, favouring the sandy soil areas. They are currently avoiding the regions where the soil is mostly clay. With the recent rains, food has become abundant, supporting their movement and feeding patterns.
Buffalo
  • Buffaloes prefer areas with abundant good grass and tend to avoid regions with heavy clay soils.
  • Recently large herds have been frequently sighted in the Nduna and Sosigi areas. All these herds appear to be thriving, benefiting from the favourable grazing conditions.
Rhinos
  • Even though the bush has become thick and provides excellent cover for white rhinos, we have mastered the key areas where they prefer to spend their time.
  • Black rhinos on the other hand, have become more difficult to locate. They are more active at night and they spend most of their time hidden in dense thickets.
Spotted hyena
  • Spotted hyenas are prolific around Nyari at this time of the year. The abundance of impala and wildebeest that have recently given birth attracts them to the area. With many newborn calves at present, hyenas take advantage of the easy prey opportunities that come with the season.
Brown hyena
  • Brown hyenas are elusive animals, occasionally spotted during the dry months. Now with the bush being thick and green, and they being nocturnal, it has become much more difficult to find them.
Plains game
  • There is an abundance of plains game now. In some areas, one can find more than five species gathered in one place, all attracted by the fresh, nutritious grass. Plains game prefer open areas this time of the year, where visibility is good and safety is higher. There is no territorial competition among these species. Food is what has brought them together.
Birds
  • Migratory and non-migratory birds have been congregating in large numbers at certain areas consuming emerging termites. This season offers the best opportunity to see a wide range of birds. The diversity is remarkably as both local and visiting birds gather to feed on the abundance of insects.
Photographic hide
  • The photographic hide is not utilised when the rains begin. With a lot of natural water sources available animals no longer need to visit the pumped waterhole at the hide, unless they happen to be feeding nearby. However, it remains a great place to stop for sundowner drinks!
Rare sightings
  • We encountered a mother wildebeest giving birth to her calf, at Nyari, and stayed with her until the process completed. The calf emerged with its legs weak and jelly-like, shivering as it tried to steady itself. The mother immediately began cleaning the newborn by licking it thoroughly to stimulate circulation and help it stand. Within the hour the calf was able to keep up with its mother. Shortly after giving birth a jackal appeared and quickly took the afterbirth, an easy meal often sought by predators during calving season.
Rock art
  • Guests continue to appreciate the opportunity to see and learn about the ancient San people through their skilled paintings, which remain beautifully preserved on the rock surfaces.
Boat cruises
  • Boat cruises provided exhilarating experiences, showcasing the diverse wildlife along the waterways. Hippos lazily basked in the sun. Crocodiles lounged on the bank while some glided silently through the water. Wading birds, with their elegant forms and keen hunting skills, added to the picturesque scenery.
Fishing
  • This month’s fishing excursions have proven to be incredibly fruitful. Our outings primarily focused on three species, Mozambican tilapia, the three-spotted tilapia and tigerfish. Each trip yielded satisfying and varied catches and offered a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the thrilling fights that tigerfish are renowned for.
Gonarezhou National Park
  • Our various adventures in Gonarezhou National Park have consistently yielded remarkable experiences, especially with our encounters with the majestic elephants. The sheer size and grace of these animals always leave us in awe. Each day trip is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that Gonarezhou offers.
By Jenny Hishin
Author / Field Guide