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Best of Botswana & Victoria Falls
Wildlife Safari 18th to 29th June 2017 (12 days)
Trip Report
Lion by André Bernon
Trip report compiled by Tour Leader, André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 2
Tour Summary
The wildlife haven that is Botswana definitely delivered on this mobile safari tour. We started in Maun,
the gateway to the Okavango Delta. A memorable charter flight over the Delta gave us fantastic aerial
views of this oasis, with the great expanse thereof only being really appreciated from the air. We visited
Moremi, Khwai and the Chobe Parks and had many great sightings and memories to cherish. The roar
of a huge male Lion, African Wild Dogs on the hunt, Leopard on a kill and another with tiny cubs, many
African Elephants with small calves, Giraffe, Plains Zebra, Spotted Hyaena den with small pups,
Aardwolf, Honey Badger and Bat-eared Foxes were just some of the mammalian highlights. Moving on
to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-tunya as it is locally named (which
means the “smoke that thunders”) was another highlight, as we experienced the roar of the mighty
Zambezi River tumbling down about 320 feet. A fantastic experience for all and memories made to
cherish for a lifetime.
___________________________________________________________________________________
We all had finally arrived in the landlocked
country of Botswana and congregated at the
Maun International Airport for our private
charter flight into the famed Okavango Delta.
Our Cessna Caravan gave us all window seats to
enjoy the great spectacle which is the Delta, from
the air. The great mass of water was astounding
and we even managed to spot some African
Elephant, Southern Lechwe and Hippopotamus,
in the myriad of swampland and mopane scrub,
from the air. Our short thirty-minute flight had
us lining up the Xakanaxa runway and after a
smooth landing, we were met by our local guide
with "open-air" safari vehicle in tow. After a
quick acquaintance, we all jumped in and made
our way to our first "home" within the famed
Moremi Game Reserve.
The Okavango and surroundings are considered to
be one of the best places to see wildlife in Africa.
The large Zambezi River used to make its way
through this harsh landscape millennia ago;
flowing into the Limpopo River basin. Due to the
uplift of the Great Rift, the flow was cut off and
thus created an inland "sea". After largely drying
up, the area surrounding the Okavango Delta
became rich in minerals and now produces
fantastic grazing, with sweet grass abound. En
route we saw tonnes of Smith's Bush Squirrels,
many Impala, a few Greater Kudu and even an
African Elephant which had decided to give us the
"cold shoulder". The mopane scrub gave way to
pristine woodland which mainly consisted of huge
Charter plane by André Bernon
Okavango Delta from the air by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 3
Mopani, Rain-tree and African Ebonies, with fantastic grass savanna in between. Great birds seen en
route included Arnott's Chat, Bennett's Woodpecker, Southern Black Tit, the stunning Greater Blue-eared
and Burchell's Starlings and many Southern Red-billed Hornbill. Driving into our mobile camp, we were
greeted by the friendly smiles of our camp team who had erected a magnificent site for us, in the middle
of the African bush. This was by no means camping, but rather "glamping" – glamorous camping!
Luxurious tents and fine dining African style, with our own personal chef – who produced scrumptious
and fresh meals in the African bush using only primitive techniques and fire.
After making ourselves at home, we were whisked away on a short drive before sunset. A pan nearby
was our first stop, and we immediately spotted a massive Goliath Heron in pursuit of something tasty. A
stunning African Fish Eagle looked on in the perfect afternoon glow. African Jacanas jumped over the
lilies and African Darters hunted for fish. Another small pond nearby was covered with green algae and
we were surprised when a log turned into a massive, lone Hippopotamus bull. A family of Egyptian
Geese looked on with small goslings in tow. We made our way back, witnessing some Red-billed and
Swainson's Spurfowls with chicks too; arriving back at camp with a roaring campfire to enjoy. After a
welcoming shower under the African stars, we settled down for a drink, watching the fire and chatting
about our day’s adventure and what tomorrow’s
plans would entail. A lovely dinner saw us retiring
to bed for a good night’s rest; listening to African
Scops Owl before the early start the following day.
We woke to the roar of some big male Lions, and
had a hearty breakfast before sunrise and our
adventure began. Setting out to explore Moremi, we
quickly found some new mammals in the form of
Southern Lechwe, Giraffe and Plains Zebra on the
open plains. Good bird sightings included the
monotypic Hamerkop, an Okavango special – the
Slaty Egret, Meyer's Parrot, Brubru, African Grey
Hornbill, Black-backed Puffback and even Pearl-
spotted Owlet. We picked up on some Lion spoor
on a sandy track and went in hot pursuit. A nice
surprise was finding two Honey Badgers who
quickly disappeared unfortunately. A great sighting
African sunset by André Bernon
Slaty Egret by Markus Lilje
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 4
nonetheless of this seldom seen and fearless mammal! We followed the spoor until we reached a dead-
end, as they had moved onto an island that was not accessible. Carrying on with our exploration, we
found more of the swamp-loving Southern Lechwe, prehistoric Nile Crocodile and a couple of Giraffe
with some calves practising geophagy – feeding on minerals on the edge of a pan. A fast receding pan
gave us good looks at how Saddle-billed and Yellow-billed
Storks feed. The iconic Bateleur, Hooded Vulture, and
Double-banded and Burchell's Sandgrouse were a nice
surprise, and an African Skimmer showed off in flight
amongst some hirundines in the form of the uncommon
Grey-rumped Swallow and Banded Martin. We made our
way back after a nice cup of coffee and biscuits,
surrounded by Meves's Starlings; bumping into a huge
African Buffalo bull running across the road, before
reaching our camp for an early midday lunch. After filling
our bellies, we had a siesta, post shower, and woke relaxed
and ready for some afternoon tea and cake.
Another adventure ensued, and before jumping onto our
safari vehicle, we spotted a few African Elephants
meandering along their normal route, right next to our
camp! We watched these gentle giants on foot, only to
notice the impressive Southern Ground Hornbill in hot
pursuit. We quickly got wind of the male Lions that had
been found near our camp! We made our way but got
distracted by a large troop of Vervets, quickly followed by
a massive troop of Chacma Baboons! We watched these
comical creatures as they fed alongside a gang of Banded Mongoose and some Impala. We continued
and later found two male Lions resting right next to the road! Knowing that dominant male Lions can
sleep for up to twenty hours a day, we enjoyed the view as the one rolled over a few times, even sitting
up to glare into our eyes, just a few metres from us. As the sun began to set, we had to make our way
home and enjoyed a great beef fillet with the campfire roaring in the background. A quick search for the
African Scops Owl above our heads gave us great views before some rest after a long and successful day
in the African bush.
We woke, once again to an early morning
breakfast, before exploring a different
section of Moremi. This time we made our
way north-east, passing a journey of
Giraffe, many herds of Impala and flock
after flock of Helmeted Guineafowls. We
enjoyed a quick rest-stop only to find some
bats roosting under the thatch roof of the
men's toilet! Some careful examination
revealed them to be the odd-looking
Egyptian Slit-faced Bat! A small flock of
Knob-billed Duck were seen at a small
watering hole, followed by a large flock of
Southern Lechwe by Markus Lilje
Banded Mongoose by Cuan Rush
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 5
the special Hartlaub's Babbler, accompanied by Jameson's Firefinch, Black-crowned Tchagra, Grey-
backed Camaroptera and Yellow-throated Petronia. We reached an area known as Paradise Pan and found
fresh spoor of a large male Leopard. Following the spoor, we bumped into a large African Elephant,
which gave us excellent views. Unfortunately, the Leopard spoor headed into a dense area, so we made
our way deeper into the swamp after spotted a
pair of Senegal Coucal.
Upon reaching the swamp, we enjoyed the tiny
African Pygmy Goose, followed by the massive
Coppery-tailed Coucal. We stumbled upon a
huge "bachelor" herd of Southern Lechwe,
which consisted of only males. After a sighting
of a Saddle-billed Stork and Capped Wheatear,
we enjoyed some tea and coffee with
swampland surrounding us and Southern
Lechwe looking very confused at us and our
antics. We managed views of both Chirping and
Luapula Cisticolas here, which are both
Okavango endemics, and we were also lucky to
have brief glimpses of a rare Spotted-necked
Otter! On our way back, we saw two majestic Greater Kudu bulls which were in their prime. We watched
these large browsing antelope for some time before stopping to view a tower of Giraffe. Whilst viewing
the Giraffe, a mixed species flock of birds came about, which consisted of Arnott's Chat, Crested Barbet,
Cardinal Woodpecker, White-crested Helmetshrike and Common Scimitarbill. We meandered back for
a tasty lunch before our well-deserved siesta and a sighting of a Bearded Woodpecker in camp.
Our afternoon exploration had us heading south-west, to the
third bridge area, and we managed to find Common Wildebeest,
African Elephant showing us who is boss, Plains Zebra,
Southern Lechwe, Giraffe, Vervet, Impala and Greater Kudu.
Some Kittlitz's and White-fronted Plovers entertained us, as well
as three young Nile Crocodiles warming themselves in the sun
as ectotherms do. An African Marsh Harrier quartered the
marsh. A Red-crested Korhaan gave us superb views as it fed
and a Southern White-crowned Shrike was also new. We made
our way back as the sun began to set and a special sighting of a
rare Black Coucal was enjoyed as it crept through the sedges,
and a Giraffe with a stunning sunset in the background made for
an impressive view. A bush dinner under the stars was most
welcome upon our return. We sat around the fire after dinner,
noting our sightings for the day as we heard the loud call of the
dominant male Leopard just down the road! A wonderful ending
to another great day in Africa!
The following morning started with a huge male Lion roaring
within close proximity in a northerly direction. We enjoyed a
hearty breakfast before heading out well before sunrise. Our
Giraffe by David Shackelford
Greater Kudu by Adam Riley
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 6
bags were packed as we were shifting camp today, leaving Moremi for the game-abundant Khwai
Community area north of Moremi Game Reserve. We had a lot in store before making our way there, as
we started to track the Lions we had heard roaring a little while earlier. We searched the sandy roads for
their spoor and eventually picked up on the spoor of two males.
Some skilful tracking soon found us the same
two males we had seen two days before. They
lay down in the open, posing as they do, so
majestically. The larger male was the
dominant male for this area and he glowed in
the morning rays as the sun rose above the
tree-tops – a truly magical sighting! He
proceeded to grunt a few times and took to a
roaring position. We waited in anticipation for
some time before our efforts paid off and we
were treated to the magnificent power of a
male Lion’s roar! It echoed down the valley
and sent shivers down our spines! Truly
remarkable, and a memory to treasure! We
moved onwards, after having this sighting to
ourselves. We rounded a couple of corners only to find one of the world’s rarest canids – African Wild
Dogs! We couldn't believe our luck as we watched a pack of seven as they interacted with one another
after clearly devouring an Impala! We watched this pack for some time in the early morning sun as they
made their way closer to our vehicle and off into the African landscape! An adrenaline pumping morning
for sure!
We drove on, letting the nerves settle after a bumper morning, getting looks at Western Banded Snake
Eagle, Marico Sunbird, a group of Little Bee-eaters, Ashy Flycatcher, Swamp Boubou, Saddle-billed
Stork, Slaty Egret, Rufous-bellied Heron and Bennett's Woodpecker. Southern Lechwe kept us company
as we enjoyed some morning tea and coffee. Here, we also managed to spot a large Nile Crocodile
sunning himself with a pod of Hippopotamus watching on from the water. We continued north to Khwai
and were surprised to find a Greater Honeyguide that proceeded to "chatter" to us, clearly wanting to
"guide" us through the African bush to a
beehive! This became evident as we drove
for many kilometres with him flying
alongside us - "chattering" away. A Flap-
necked Chameleon was found crossing the
road and we watched it swaying from side-
to-side in the wind, imitating a fallen leaf.
Some time passed before a fresh python
track was found crossing the road. Luckily,
it was very fresh and we found the culprit, a
South African Rock Python, approximately
2.5 metres in length! We enjoyed this rare
sighting as it moved up a small Mopani tree,
trying to make it to an adjoining tree. We
entered the Khwai area and soon after doing
African Wild Dogs by Adam Riley
Flap-necked Chameleon by Adam Riley
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 7
so, enjoyed a picnic lunch under the shade of a tree. We continued further along the Khwai River towards
our campsite after a little "siesta" and a day sighting of an African Savanna Hare!
Winding our way along the Khwai River and some adjoining channels, we enjoyed many sightings of
old African Elephant bulls. Waterbuck, Plains Zebra, Common Warthog, Impala, Southern Lechwe and
Hippopotamus were plentiful along this
green river. We had a few Rufous-bellied
Herons, Intermediate and Great Egrets,
Long-toed Lapwing, Southern White-
crowned Shrike, Bateleur, Tawny Eagle,
African Hawk-Eagle and Saddle-billed
and Marabou Storks, too. We arrived at
our luxurious and ready-made camp with
a spectacular African sunset in the
background and Lions roaring in the
distance too! After a warm shower and a
warm meal, we retired for a well-
deserved rest after a long and very
successful day!
After breakfast, we made our way out into
the African bush. We immediately picked up on some Lion tracks but soon lost the spoor, as well as the
spoor of a Leopard. We continued to a tributary of the Khwai River and were greeted by our Mokoro
guides – a primitive dug-out canoe that is used to traverse the shallow channels of the Okavango. We
hopped in and enjoyed the skilful manoeuvring and agility that these Mokoros make possible. The peace
and tranquillity were felt immediately as we glided effortlessly through the water. We managed to get
really close to a pair of Hippopotamuses, which we dubbed "Romeo and Juliet". A whole host of birds
were spotted, such as Rufous-bellied Heron, African Hawk- and African Fish Eagles, a pair of Little
Sparrowhawk feeding and then mating, African Pygmy Goose and a surprise Little Bittern. Worth an
extra mention were Malachite Kingfisher and Little Bee-eater that allowed us to get extremely close
views!
We thoroughly enjoyed this adventure and continued on our safari vehicle through the Khwai area. We
found a large herd of African Elephant leaving the mopane scrub and heading down to the Khwai River
for a mid-morning drink. We watched these intelligent and extremely gentle giants as they ambled along,
with many small babies in tow. A few large bulls were present and showed some interesting behaviour
as they scrutinised the dung of some cows; taking the scent to their Jacobson's Organ on the roof of their
African Elephant bull by Matthew Matthiessen
Mokoro trip by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 8
mouths using their trunks, to see when oestrus will be reached. Continuing, we bumped into the heaviest
flying bird in the world, the Kori Bustard! We enjoyed watching a pair as they searched for their next
meals. We got to camp after witnessing the cute gregarious Dwarf Mongoose as well as a new hornbill
– the Bradfield's. After lunch, we took to the shower before our "siesta" and watched some African
Elephant bulls draw nearer to our camp, gracefully feeding off some camelthorn trees on the perimeter
of our camp!
Afternoon cake and tea were followed by a
sunset drive where we managed to find a
large patriarch African Elephant bull with his
askaris. He tried to break down a huge branch
before heading down to the Khwai for a
drink. Two Hippopotamuses were found
nearby, out of the water grazing – which is
not a usual daytime sighting. A group of
Banded Mongoose scurried across an open
field before we spotted a single Topi, a
peculiar looking mammal indeed. A flock of
Southern Pied Babblers was a treat before we
made our way to Leopard Lagoon for
fantastic sundowners. The sunset was just
fantastic and what made it more special was
our only Lesser Moorhen and some African Elephant on the edge of the pan just below the sunset. They
proceeded to drink and then walked through the deep water, just below the sunset glow! Truly magical
and etched into our memories forever. An African Barred Owlet called nearby, just before dark. Some
skilful searching produced absolutely superb views of this little stunner! As darkness fell, we continued
on our night drive and managed to have an exceptional sighting when a mature African Elephant bull
was found ambling along the road towards us. We remained quiet and switched all lights off – watching
him calmly approach the vehicle and stroll past within metres was insanely spectacular! Another new
mammal came in the form of the odd kangaroo-like Spring Hare – a large rodent that hops on its large
hind-legs. We also got good views of Western Barn Owl, as well as the diminutive Southern Lesser
Galago hopping around with little effort and great energy. We got back to camp with a roaring fire and
enjoyed a great dinner with apple
crumble dessert cooked in the bush,
listening to an elephant feeding just
outside camp.
Another early morning start saw us
finding a big Hippopotamus bull out of
the water on the road. Not long into our
drive did we find a Lioness that had
stolen a kill from a Leopardess. We
watched the Lioness devour large
chunks of meat off the Impala carcass
before moving off. We followed her for
a few minutes and were treated to
fantastic close-up views as she walked
Spring Hare by Markus Lilje
Leopard by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 9
toward our vehicle, with a stare that can only be explained when witnessed. We left her in peace and
went in search of the Leopardess and quickly found a small adult female within minutes, heading back
to her initial kill.
We watched as she investigated what remained and scouted the perimeter for any danger. She quickly
grabbed a big piece of the carcass and scoured up a huge dead tree – out in the open for all to see in the
early morning sun! We spent at least a whole hour with this old yet small female (named Machada) who
was missing her lower right canine. She fed on the Impala bits and fetched some more when she had
finished what she was busy with. A truly magical experience – so close and spectacular. She disappeared
into the mopane scrub and this is when we left this magnificent creature in peace. Soon after, we enjoyed
a sow Common Warthog with some young – mud bathing and then scratching on a tree stump. A small
drying pan was a sight to behold; the abundant fish supply within reach created a feeding frenzy for many
Marabou Storks, Pink-backed Pelicans and much more. We stumbled across a large and lone African
Buffalo bull nearby, who was not happy with our presence. A large herd of African Elephant bulls
completed a fantastic morning, with four of the "Big 5"!
The afternoon started off well when we spotted two juvenile Allen's Gallinules, an uncommon species to
encounter this time of the year. We found a lot of general game and some great elephant sightings as they
crossed the Khwai River. A young Bateleur was seen drinking here too. A pair of Topi presented
themselves as well as Greater Kudu, the diminutive African Dwarf Mongoose, Smith's Bush Squirrel,
Plains Zebra and Giraffe. The sun started lowering its height and some good spotting found us a minute
Leopard cub lying in an exposed sandy section on the edge of some Mopani scrub. We watched at this
tiny creature look around and noticed
some movement in the tall grass next to it.
We ventured closer and found the
“magotho” female with her two three-
month-old cubs on a fully grown Impala
ram kill! Quite a large kill for this little
female! We enjoyed an hour with this
family and were treated to fantastic views
as they interacted and fed on the carcass!
A Leopard day indeed.
With adrenaline levels high, we enjoyed a
quick sunset drink and continued in the
evening. We returned to the kill after dark
to find one small little cub high up in a
tree. Not to disturb, we left the area and
Mobile camp in Khwai by André Bernon
Leopard cub by Leon Fouche
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 10
figured the mother had placed the cub there in order to leave for a drink at the local waterhole. Some
other spotlighting found us a little African Scops Owl, Spring Hare and the uncommon Side-striped
Jackal! Near camp, we came across a Southern Lesser Galago that perched at eye-level, a few metres
from our vehicle. It gave views for a few seconds before leaping an exceptionally long distance to the
bush nearby. Another fantastic day in Africa
was discussed and enjoyed around a campfire
and a scrumptious dinner.
Another travel day had arrived as we set out
for the famed Savuti area within the Chobe
Game Reserve. We left Khwai behind us but
first decided to see what had happened to our
Leopard family and their kill. We neared the
area and heard the spurfowls alarming,
giving away the presence of a predator.
Luckily, all was safe with our much loved
Leopard and cubs, with Spotted Hyaena
spoor everywhere. We watched these
magnificent creatures for a while before
leaving them in peace. A small herd of elephants revealed the smallest little baby, a mere month old –
very wobbly on his feet and waving his trunk around like it was a toy. We watched this little guy for
some time as he played around and twirled with joy. A really special and memorable display. After a
brief coffee break, we moved on towards the Mobabe Gate of Chobe, where we had some lunch under
the Mopani trees. Venturing further along the edge of the Mobabe Depression, we found some new birds,
such as the cute Scaly-feathered Weaver, Violet-eared Waxbill, Green-winged Pytilia and Desert
Cisticola. Many Kori Bustards were refreshing and a distant Secretarybird was new; as well as a
Verreaux's Eagle-Owl on its nest! Giraffe and African Elephant were numerous and Tawny Eagles were
also abundant.
We did well with mammal sightings in the afternoon as we neared Savuti. The star was definitely a
beautiful Wild Cat who watched us from the track for a minute or so, in daylight! Superb! The small
Steenbok and both Slender and Yellow Mongooses were great new sightings, as well as the desert
adapted Gemsbok or Oryx – a super rare
sighting for this region! We neared the
bizarre Savuti Channel with its hills in the
distance and found some roosting Southern
White-faced Owls! We reached our
magnificently placed and ready-made camp
on the edge of the dry channel; settling down
to a warm shower and great meal.
The sound of Lion roars and Hyaena moans
saw us waking up to a fresh morning and
heading out after our ritualistic early morning
breakfast in camp. We headed to the area
where we heard the Lions and picked up on
their spoor heading south-east. We followed
Kori Bustard by Adam Riley
Bateleur by Adam Riley
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 11
the spoor until they went into a block. Whilst skirting around, we were surprised to find a young male
heading back the way they had come. He walked straight towards us and proceeded to lead us to three
larger males, a coalition of brothers that had tolerated this younger nomad. Some great interaction
between a larger male and the youngster was great to see. He crept behind the youngster and pounced on
him; a short scuffle broke loose and this was
clearly a dominance-orientated feud. The four
got up one at a time and headed to some thick
apple-leaf shrub, disappearing as quickly as
they'd arrived. We also found an African
Elephant foraging for some baobab seeds and
soon after, tried some for ourselves. Some great
birds that were found included a melanistic
Gabar Goshawk, more Bateleur and Tawny
Eagles, Rufous-naped Lark, a pair of Double-
banded Coursers, many Burchell's Sandgrouse,
Violet-eared and Blue Waxbills, Scaly-
feathered Weaver and Chestnut-backed
Sparrowlarks! A great morning around the dry
Savuti Channel!
The afternoon adventure saw us heading for the Savuti Marsh, into which the now dry channel
occasionally runs. En route we found many Greater Kudu, Giraffe and even Tropical Boubou and Brown-
crowned Tchagra. We also stopped off at the "Bushman" Rock Painting site nearby and took a short walk
to the art site in a small cliff face. We proceeded and watched a small herd of elephant in a small open
plain. We reached the marsh and no sooner found about five Kori Bustard with a small predator-like
mammal amongst them in the long grass. We lifted our binoculars and were pleasantly surprised to find
an adult Aardwolf! An exceptional sighting of this insectivore in the afternoon. We watched in awe as it
searched for food and continued with clear luck on our side. We headed over the "sand ridge" – the
prehistoric shoreline of an extinct inland sea –
and made our way west. We rounded a corner
and found a large pack of Spotted Hyaena at
their den-site! We neared and watched as some
young pups, still black on the legs, came closer
to investigate as the matriarch watched on. A
beautiful ending to an exciting day.
The great Savuti had the most exciting morning
in store for us today. Lions and Spotted
Hyaenas called near camp throughout the
night. We had a quick breakfast and were out
whilst it was still dark. A Southern White-
faced Owl and African Barred Owlet
entertained us before we found two huge male
Lions lying in the middle of the road. We
watched these guys for some time before hearing a Leopard calling nearby. We also got wind of a pack
of African Wild Dogs nearby so made our way there; searching for the vociferous Leopard en route. We
struck lucky with a gorgeous Leopardess rolling in some short grass. She was extremely relaxed and then
Aardwolf by André Bernon
Spotted Hyaena den by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 12
made her way to the front of the vehicle slowly and disappeared into the bush with angry spurfowls in
tow. A mere five minutes away was where we found a pack of nine African Wild Dogs! We followed
them for some time as they trotted alongside the dry channel, clearly on the hunt. It was great to see as
they worked together to try and flush antelope out of the dense thicket. We lost them as they made a dash
for the other side of the channel, and made our
way onwards after a great sighting of one of
the world’s most endangered canids. We
passed by the two male Lion once again and
watched them make their way back to the
centre of their territory. It wasn't long after
before we found the rest of the "marsh pride".
At least four females were seen in the distance
on a sand ridge and a mother and 3 sub-adults
were found on the edge of the marsh. We crept
nearer and had them right next to us at a stage,
taking in the sheer size of a one-year-old Lion!
A fantastic morning indeed!
We decided to head to a different section of
the Savuti Marsh this afternoon and were
surprised when we found a Caspian Plover in full breeding plumage! This was really odd as this is a
migratory bird and should not be in the southern hemisphere at this time of the year. A small family of
Bat-eared Foxes was a neat surprise as we found them laying on the edge of a termite mound. Their large
ears were evident as they popped their heads up to look at us. We also saw many pairs of the golden-
coloured Black-backed Jackals, Kori Bustard and a single Secretarybird! We stumbled across a single
Temminck’s Courser in the middle of the track and also found many Black-bellied Bustards and Northern
Black Korhaans. We couldn’t believe our eyes when we found Aardwolf again – although probably the
same individual as yesterday. The small family of Lion were visited where we found them this morning.
We watched as the “kids” had a little playtime
scuffle.
The last day of our mobile safari adventure had
unfortunately arrived, and we had to make our
way north – out of the Savuti area and through
the Chobe Forest Reserve towards Kasane. We
stopped for some hot drinks underneath a huge
baobab and continued our way north and then
east, arriving in the town of Kasane, on the
shores of the Chobe River, before lunch. We
said our goodbyes to our local guide and
proceeded to board our boat for a trip down the
Chobe. We saw a lot of wildlife and got really
close to African Elephant, African Buffalo, Nile
Crocodile, mating Nile Monitors, Common
Warthog, Waterbuck and Chacma Baboons. Great bird sightings were of many African Skimmers, many
Malachite Kingfishers, Purple Heron, Grey-headed Gull, African Marsh Harrier, White-crowned
Lapwing and also White-fronted Bee-eater.
Secretarybird by David Hoddinott
Nile Crocodile by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 13
After enjoying a great cruise, we had to make our way to the border in order to get into Zimbabwe. A
smooth transit saw us heading to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Victoria Falls or Musi-oa-
tunya (the-smoke-that-thunders). We reached our luxury hotel as the sun decided to set – a real contrast
in comparison to what we had experienced so far.
We had to get used to electricity, television, a
flushing toilet, crisp white sheets and not hearing
Lions roaring.
After a glorious breakfast watching the spray above
the falls, we strolled downhill towards the roaring
thunder. Some new birds en route were Striped
Kingfisher, Red-faced Cisticola and Red-winged
Starling. We entered the Victoria Falls gate and
enjoyed walking around the forest that had been
created by the constant spray. The view of the falls
was absolutely spectacular. The true power of the
mighty Zambezi tumbling down a hundred metres
is something that can only be understood by
experiencing it. We also had great views of two
male Bushbuck, Tropical Boubou, Holub’s Golden
Weaver, Yellow-breasted Apalis and Rock Martin.
After some time enjoying the spectacle, and feeling
the spray, we made our way back to the town for
some lunch, with some shopping en route. Many
opted for more shopping in town after lunch and the
afternoon saw us heading to the historic Victoria
Falls Hotel in order to experience this colonial hotel
and enjoy “high tea” – complete with macaroons,
scones, and cucumber and salmon sandwiches. We enjoyed a walk on the well-groomed lawns, taking in
the view of the bridge and spray of the falls behind it. A new and extremely good bird was also seen here
– Schalow’s Turaco – alongside the noisy Trumpeter Hornbill. Some last minute shopping was had en
route, dodging Banded Mongooses and Chacma Baboons in town.
The final morning saw the entire team heading for an extra activity; the not-to-be-missed helicopter flip
over the falls! This was thoroughly enjoyed, as one has the opportunity to witness the sheer size of the
falls. A nice welcome was seeing African Elephant, a large herd of African Buffalo and even Giraffe
from the air. Our adventure had unfortunately come to an end, as we had to make our way to the airport
for our connecting flight to Johannesburg. A great ending to our fantastic African odyssey.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Annotated List of species recorded Note: Number in brackets ( ) indicate number of days on the tour the species was recorded.
List powered through the report generator of our partner iGoTerra.
Mammals (39 in total: 38 seen, 1 heard)
Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced
IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the
Victoria Falls by André Bernon
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 14
Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient
Zimbabwe
Elephants Elephantidae
African Elephant Loxodonta africana
(1) Victoria Falls 29.6.
Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae
Vervet Chlorocebus pygerythrus
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Mongooses Herpestidae
Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo
(1) 35 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Pigs Suidae
Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus sundevallii
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep, Goats Bovidae
African Buffalo Syncerus caffer caffer
(1) Victoria Falls 29.6.
Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Two males were seen in the forest on the edge of the falls.
Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros
(1) Victoria Falls 29.6.
Giraffe, Okapi Giraffidae
Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis
(1) Victoria Falls 29.6.
Botswana
Elephants Elephantidae
African Elephant Loxodonta africana
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6, observed Khwai River 21-23.6 and
observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Galagos Galagidae
Southern Lesser Galago Galago moholi
(2) 3 Khwai community area 22.6 and 1 Khwai community area 23.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 15
Our last view was fantastic as a single individual perched within meters of us on the side of our safari
vehicle.
Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae
Vervet Chlorocebus pygerythrus
(5) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 24.6 and Savuti 26.6.
Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus
(6) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, 1 heard Khwai community area 23.6, Khwai community area 24.6 and Chobe
River, Kasane 27.6.
Rabbits, Hares Leporidae
African Savanna Hare Lepus microtis
(1) 1 Khwai community area 21.6.
Springhares Pedetidae
Spring Hare Pedetes capensis
(2) 3 Khwai community area 22.6 and 2 Khwai community area 23.6.
A few of these odd nocturnal mammals were seen on our night excursions in Khwai.
True Mice and Rats, Gerbils, Spiny Mice, Crested Rat Muridae
Acacia Rat Thallomys paedulcus
(1) 1 Khwai community area 23.6.
Squirrels Sciuridae
Smith's Bush Squirrel Paraxerus cepapi
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Cats Felidae
Wild Cat Felis silvestris
(1) 1 Savuti 24.6.
An individual was seen alongside the Mababe Depression just after midday!.It was seen in the road and
proceeded to watch us, startled, for a good 30 seconds.
Lion Panthera leo leo
(5) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6, 2 Xakanaxa 21.6, 1 Khwai community area 23.6, 4 Savuti 25.6 and 1 heard
Khwai community area 26.6.
We had many sightings of these great beasts including a roaring male - close to the vehicle.
Leopard Panthera pardus pardus
(4) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6, 4 Khwai community area 23.6, 2 Khwai community area 24.6 and 1 Savuti
26.6.
Exceptional encounters of females. The first sighting had us watch a female go back to her kill after a
Lioness had stolen it; we continued to watch her for over an hour, feeding off the remains in a tree.
Another great experience was watching another female with two three-month-old cubs on an adult
Impala ram kill!
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 16
Mongooses Herpestidae
Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata
(2) 1 Savuti 24.6 and 2 Savuti 25.6.
Common Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula
(5) Up to 20 Khwai community area 22-24.6, 2 Savuti 25.6 and 5 Savuti 26.6.
Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus
(1) 2 Savuti 24.6.
Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo
(4) 6 Xakanaxa 19.6, 10 Khwai community area 22.6, 5 Khwai community area 23.6 and 1 Savuti
27.6.
Hyaenas, Aardwolf Hyaenidae
Spotted Hyaena Crocuta crocuta
(2) 9 Savuti 25.6 and 1 heard Savuti 26.6.
We had a great encounter of many at their den-site, including small pups.
Aardwolf Proteles cristata
(2) 1 Savuti 25.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
We found this rare insectivore twice, probably the same individual.
Wolves, Coyote, Foxes, Jackals Canidae
Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus
(1) 1 Khwai community area 23.6.
We found an adult on our night excursion.
Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas
(3) 1 heard Xakanaxa 19.6, 5 Savuti 25.6 and 4 Savuti 26.6.
African Wild Dog Lycaon pictus
(2) 7 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 9 Savuti 26.6.
We saw two packs. The first sighting was a small pack on a freshly devoured kill. The second sighting
was when we followed them whilst they were on the hunt.
Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis megalotis
(1) 4 Savuti 26.6.
We saw a small family group on the Savuti Marsh.
Weasels, Skunks, Otters Mustelidae
Spotted-necked Otter Lutra maculicollis
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Brief sightings were had at Paradise Pond.
Honey Badger Mellivora capensis
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6.
We were lucky to find a pair whilst tracking down some Lion spoor.
Zebras, Horse, Asses Equidae
Plains Zebra Equus quagga
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 17
(7) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6, Savuti 24.6, Chobe River, Kasane
27.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Pigs Suidae
Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus sundevallii
(6) Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Khwai community area 24.6, Savuti
26.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Hippopotamuses Hippopotamidae
Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius capensis
(9) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6, Savuti 25.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep, Goats Bovidae
Impala Aepyceros melampus melampus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6, observed Savuti 24-26.6 and Chobe
River, Kasane 27.6.
Common Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus
(7) Xakanaxa 20.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Topi Damaliscus lunatus lunatus
(3) 3 Khwai community area 22.6, 2 Khwai community area 23.6 and 20 Savuti 26.6.
Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus
(5) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6, 10 Xakanaxa 21.6, 25 Khwai community area 22.6, 10 Khwai community area
23.6 and 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Southern Lechwe Kobus leche
(7) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, 2 Khwai River 22.6, 2 Khwai River 23.6 and 3 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Gemsbok Oryx gazella
(1) 2 Savuti 24.6.
We were extremely lucky to find a pair of these near Savuti. A rare sighting in this part of the country.
Steenbok Raphicerus campestris campestris
(4) Up to 2 Savuti 24-27.6.
African Buffalo Syncerus caffer caffer
(5) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Khwai community area 23.6, 10 Savuti 25.6, 1 Savuti 26.6 and 25 Chobe
River, Kasane 27.6.
Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros
(9) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and observed Savuti
24-26.6.
Giraffe, Okapi Giraffidae
Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis
(9) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Slit-faced Bats Nycteridae
Cape Long-eared Bat Nycteris thebaica
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 18
(2) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6, 2 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 1 Khwai community area 21.6.
Old World Fruit Bats Pteropodidae
Peters's Epauletted Fruit Bat Epomophorus crypturus
(1) 1 heard Xakanaxa 19.6.
Birds (229 in total: 222 seen, 7 heard)
Nomenclature and taxonomy follows Gill, F and D Donsker (Eds). 2017. IOC World Bird List (v 7.1).
Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced
IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the
Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient
Zimbabwe
Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl Anatidae
Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis niger
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Guineafowl Numididae
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Hawks, Eagles, and Kites Accipitridae
Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Pigeons and Doves Columbidae
Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola
(2) Victoria Falls 28.6 and Victoria Falls 29.6.
Turacos Musophagidae
Schalow's Turaco Tauraco schalowi
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
We were lucky to find a calling bird in the garden of Victoria Falls Hotel.
Swifts Apodidae
Little Swift Apus affinis
(1) 20 Victoria Falls 27.6.
Kingfishers Alcedinidae
Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris
(2) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6 and 1 Victoria Falls 29.6.
Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti chelicuti
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 19
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Bee-eaters Meropidae
Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Hornbills Bucerotidae
Trumpeter Hornbill Bycanistes bucinator
(1) 15 Victoria Falls 28.6.
African Barbets Lybiidae
Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 27.6.
Helmetshrikes and Allies Prionopidae
White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Bushshrikes and Allies Malaconotidae
Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus similis
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Tropical Boubou Laniarius major
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Crows, Jays, and Magpies Corvidae
Pied Crow Corvus albus
(2) 2 Victoria Falls 27.6 and 12 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Bulbuls Pycnonotidae
Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris occidentalis
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris
(1) 3 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Swallows Hirundinidae
Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 20
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Cisticolas and Allies Cisticolidae
Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops nyasa
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida
(1) 3 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata
(1) 3 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Starlings Sturnidae
Burchell's Starling Lamprotornis australis
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio morio
(1) 6 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae
Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata quadrivirgata
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini heuglini
(2) 1 heard Victoria Falls 27.6 and 1 heard Victoria Falls 28.6.
Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae
Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris
(1) 4 Victoria Falls 28.6.
White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala
(1) 7 Victoria Falls 27.6.
Weavers and Allies Ploceidae
Holub's Golden Weaver Ploceus xanthops
(1) 4 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Waxbills and Allies Estrildidae
Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala rendalli
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis
(1) Victoria Falls 28.6.
Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae
African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 21
(1) 2 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Botswana
Ostrich Struthionidae
Common Ostrich Struthio camelus australis
(2) 2 Savuti 25.6 and 4 Savuti 26.6.
Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl Anatidae
White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata
(6) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai River 23.6, Khwai River 24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis niger
(8) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai River 21-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos
(5) Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, Khwai River 22.6, Khwai River 23.6 and Chobe River, Kasane
27.6.
Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca
(8) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai River 21-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
African Pygmy Goose Nettapus auritus
(2) 3 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 3 Khwai River 21.6.
Seen on Paradise Pan and on our Makoro trip.
Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata undulata
(3) Up to 2 Xakanaxa 18-20.6.
Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha
(4) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6, 7 Khwai River 23.6, 2 Khwai River 24.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 2 Khwai River 24.6.
Guineafowl Numididae
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies Phasianidae
Coqui Francolin Peliperdix coqui coqui
(1) 7 Savuti 24.6.
We found a covey near the Mababe Depression, crossing the road.
Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena
(6) 1 heard Xakanaxa 19.6, 2 Khwai community area 23.6, 5 Khwai community area 24.6 and up to 3
Savuti 25-27.6.
Red-billed Spurfowl Pternistis adspersus
(10) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-
27.6.
Swainson's Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii
(10) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 22
Storks Ciconiidae
Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis
(7) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai River 22.6, Khwai River 24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus lamelligerus
(2) 3 Khwai River 23.6 and 80 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis
(6) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai River 22.6 and Khwai River 23.6.
Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumenifer
(3) Up to 80 Khwai community area 21-23.6.
Ibises and Spoonbills Threskiornithidae
African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus
(5) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, Khwai River 21.6 and Khwai River 23.6.
Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash
(3) 7 Xakanaxa 20.6, 1 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
(2) 20 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 12 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
African Spoonbill Platalea alba
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 8 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns Ardeidae
Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus payesii
(1) 1 Khwai River 22.6.
We flushed a bird on our Mokoro trip.
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax nycticorax
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Striated Heron Butorides striata atricapilla
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides
(3) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Rufous-bellied Heron Ardeola rufiventris
(4) 3 Xakanaxa 21.6 and up to 12 Khwai River 22-24.6.
Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
(1) 3 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea
(7) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Goliath Heron Ardea goliath
(3) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-20.6.
Purple Heron Ardea purpurea purpurea
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Great Egret Ardea alba melanorhynchos
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 23
Our best sighting was of a bird along the Khwai River, eventually swallowing a small Sharp-toothed
Catfish.
Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia brachyrhyncha
(3) 1 Khwai River 21.6, 1 Khwai River 23.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Slaty Egret (VU) Egretta vinaceigula
(5) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai River 22.6 and Khwai River 24.6.
This Okavango special was seen extremely well.
Little Egret Egretta garzetta garzetta
(3) 12 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Khwai River 23.6 and 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Hamerkop Scopidae
Hamerkop Scopus umbretta umbretta
(6) Xakanaxa 18-20.6 and observed Khwai River 21-23.6.
Pelicans Pelecanidae
Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus
(3) Up to 3 Khwai community area 22-24.6.
We found some roosting birds, obviously on the move.
Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens
(1) 12 Khwai community area 23.6.
A receding pan held many of these in a frantic feeding frenzy.
Cormorants and Shags Phalacrocoracidae
Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus africanus
(5) Xakanaxa 18-21.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Anhingas Anhingidae
African Darter Anhinga rufa rufa
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Secretarybird Sagittariidae
Secretarybird (VU) Sagittarius serpentarius
(2) 1 Savuti 24.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
This iconic species was seen well when it perched on top of a small acacia on the edge of the Savuti
Marsh.
Hawks, Eagles, and Kites Accipitridae
Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus caeruleus
(4) Up to 8 Savuti 24-27.6.
Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
White-backed Vulture (NT) Gyps africanus
(5) 15 Xakanaxa 19.6, up to 8 Khwai community area 22-24.6 and 8 Savuti 25.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 24
White-headed Vulture (VU) Trigonoceps occipitalis
(2) 1 Savuti 25.6 and 1 Savuti 27.6.
Lappet-faced Vulture (VU) Torgos tracheliotos tracheliotos
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 1 Khwai community area 24.6.
Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis
(1) 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus
(6) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Western Banded Snake Eagle Circaetus cinerascens
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 21.6.
Bateleur (NT) Terathopius ecaudatus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Martial Eagle (NT) Polemaetus bellicosus
(1) 1 Savuti 27.6.
Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax rapax
(8) Xakanaxa 18.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
African Hawk-Eagle Aquila spilogaster
(3) 2 Xakanaxa 21.6, 2 Khwai community area 22.6, 1 Khwai River 22.6 and 1 Savuti 24.6.
Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar gabar
(2) 4 Savuti 25.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates mechowi
(1) 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus minullus
(1) 2 Khwai River 22.6.
A pair was seen along a tributary, feeding and mating.
African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Xakanaxa 21.6.
African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Bustards Otididae
Kori Bustard (NT) Ardeotis kori kori
(6) Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Red-crested Korhaan Lophotis ruficrista
(4) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and up to 12 Savuti 24-26.6.
Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afraoides
(2) 4 Savuti 25.6 and 2 Savuti 26.6.
Black-bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster
(2) 1 Savuti 24.6 and 3 Savuti 26.6.
Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Rallidae
African Rail Rallus caerulescens
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 25
(1) 1 heard Xakanaxa 21.6.
Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra
(4) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6, 2 Xakanaxa 21.6, 5 Khwai River 22.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Allen's Gallinule Porphyrio alleni
(2) 2 Khwai River 23.6 and 1 Khwai River 24.6.
Only sub-adults were seen.
Lesser Moorhen Paragallinula angulata
(1) 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
Thick-knees Burhinidae
Water Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus vermiculatus
(1) 6 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Spotted Thick-knee Burhinus capensis
(6) Up to 1 Khwai community area 21-24.6, Savuti 25.6 and Savuti 26.6.
Stilts and Avocets Recurvirostridae
Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus
(2) 6 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 4 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Plovers and Lapwings Charadriidae
Long-toed Lapwing Vanellus crassirostris leucopterus
(5) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 19-21.6, 2 Khwai River 24.6 and 20 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6, Savuti 25.6, Savuti 26.6 and Chobe
River, Kasane 27.6.
White-crowned Lapwing Vanellus albiceps
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 18.6 and 6 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus
(9) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and observed Savuti
24-27.6.
African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus lateralis
(2) 2 Khwai community area 22.6 and 2 Khwai community area 23.6.
Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius
(1) 20 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris tricollaris
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 5 Khwai River 23.6.
White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Caspian Plover Charadrius asiaticus
(1) 1 Savuti 26.6.
Jacanas Jacanidae
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 26
African Jacana Actophilornis africanus
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 22-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Pratincoles and Coursers Glareolidae
Temminck's Courser Cursorius temminckii aridus
(1) 1 Savuti 26.6.
Double-banded Courser Rhinoptilus africanus
(1) 2 Savuti 25.6.
Bronze-winged Courser Rhinoptilus chalcopterus
(1) 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers Laridae
African Skimmer (NT) Rynchops flavirostris
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 10 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Many pairs were seen very well on our boat trip.
Grey-headed Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus poiocephalus
(1) 6 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Sandgrouse Pteroclidae
Double-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles bicinctus
(9) Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6 and observed Savuti 24-
27.6.
Burchell's Sandgrouse Pterocles burchelli
(6) Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Khwai community area 24.6, Savuti
25.6 and Savuti 26.6.
Pigeons and Doves Columbidae
Rock Dove Columba livia
(1) 20 Xakanaxa 18.6.
Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata
(5) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6, 2 Xakanaxa 20.6, 5 Khwai community area 22.6, 15 Khwai community area 23.6
and 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis
(6) Xakanaxa 20.6, Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Savuti 23.6, Savuti 24.6
and Savuti 26.6.
Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Namaqua Dove Oena capensis capensis
(5) 10 Xakanaxa 20.6, 6 Xakanaxa 21.6 and up to 1 Savuti 25-27.6.
African Green Pigeon Treron calvus
(2) 5 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 3 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 27
Turacos Musophagidae
Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor
(8) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Khwai community
area 24.6, observed Savuti 24-27.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Cuckoos Cuculidae
Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis flecki
(9) Xakanaxa 18.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and
observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Coppery-tailed Coucal Centropus cupreicaudus cupreicaudus
(5) 15 Xakanaxa 20.6, 1 heard Xakanaxa 21.6 and up to 2 Khwai River 22-24.6.
Black Coucal Centropus grillii
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Barn-Owls Tytonidae
Western Barn Owl Tyto alba poensis
(2) 1 Khwai community area 22.6 and 1 heard Savuti 26.6.
Owls Strigidae
African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis senegalensis
(6) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-21.6, 1 heard Khwai community area 22.6 and 1 Khwai community area
23.6.
Southern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis granti
(2) 3 Savuti 24.6 and 3 Savuti 26.6.
Verreaux's Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus
(2) 1 Savuti 24.6 and 2 Savuti 26.6.
Our first sighting was of a bird on the nest, followed by a pair on an exposed branch calling.
Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum licua
(9) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai
community area 24.6 and up to 1 Savuti 24-27.6.
African Barred Owlet Glaucidium capense
(5) Up to 1 Khwai community area 22-24.6, 1 heard Savuti 25.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
Nightjars and Allies Caprimulgidae
Fiery-necked Nightjar Caprimulgus pectoralis
(1) 1 Khwai community area 23.6.
Swifts Apodidae
African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus
(1) 2 Khwai community area 21.6.
Mousebirds Coliidae
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 28
Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus
(2) 10 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 20 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Rollers Coraciidae
Purple Roller Coracias naevius mosambicus
(3) 1 Khwai community area 21.6, 1 Khwai community area 24.6, 3 Savuti 24.6 and 1 Chobe River,
Kasane 27.6.
Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus caudatus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Kingfishers Alcedinidae
Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti chelicuti
(2) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 heard Xakanaxa 21.6.
Malachite Kingfisher Corythornis cristatus cristatus
(2) 2 Khwai River 22.6 and 6 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai River 21-24.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Bee-eaters Meropidae
Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus
(5) 3 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Khwai community area 21.6, 1 Khwai community area 22.6, 12 Savuti 24.6
and 10 Savuti 27.6.
Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides
(1) 3 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Hoopoes Upupidae
African Hoopoe Upupa africana
(7) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Savuti 26.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Woodhoopoes and Scimitar-bills Phoeniculidae
Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus
(5) Xakanaxa 18.6, Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6 and Khwai
community area 23.6.
A family was observed well in our camp at Magotho.
Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas
(2) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae
Southern Ground Hornbill (VU) Bucorvus leadbeateri
(3) 4 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6 and 4 Savuti 24.6.
Our best sighting was had when a group of birds followed a few elephants through the perimeter of our
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 29
camp.
Hornbills Bucerotidae
Southern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus rufirostris
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus leucomelas leucomelas
(9) Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6 and observed Savuti 24-
27.6.
Bradfield's Hornbill Lophoceros bradfieldi
(5) Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus epirhinus
(9) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-23.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
African Barbets Lybiidae
Acacia Pied Barbet Tricholaema leucomelas
(1) 1 Savuti 26.6.
Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 heard Xakanaxa 21.6.
Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii
(3) 2 Xakanaxa 18.6, 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 2 Xakanaxa 21.6.
Honeyguides Indicatoridae
Brown-backed Honeybird Prodotiscus regulus regulus
(1) 1 heard Savuti 25.6.
Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator
(2) 1 Khwai community area 21.6, 1 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 1 heard Savuti 27.6.
We had a great interaction when a bird followed us for many miles as it chattered away, trying to
"guide" us to some honey!
Woodpeckers Picidae
Bennett's Woodpecker Campethera bennettii
(4) 2 Xakanaxa 18.6, 3 Xakanaxa 20.6, 2 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni
(1) 1 heard Khwai community area 22.6.
Bearded Woodpecker Chloropicus namaquus
(3) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6, 1 heard Khwai community area 22.6 and 1 Savuti 27.6.
Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Falcons and Caracaras Falconidae
Dickinson's Kestrel Falco dickinsoni
(3) 1 Khwai community area 23.6, 1 Savuti 25.6 and 2 Savuti 26.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 30
Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus biarmicus
(1) 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
On our river cruise, we had a bird harassing all the waterfowl.
African & New World Parrots Psittacidae
Meyer's Parrot Poicephalus meyeri
(8) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Refreshingly common.
Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae
Chinspot Batis Batis molitor
(1) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6.
Helmetshrikes and Allies Prionopidae
White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus
(5) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 24.6, Savuti 24.6 and Savuti 27.6.
Bushshrikes and Allies Malaconotidae
Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis
(2) 2 Savuti 25.6 and 2 Savuti 26.6.
Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus
(2) 3 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Xakanaxa 21.6.
Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla
(5) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6 and Savuti 25.6.
Tropical Boubou Laniarius major
(1) 1 Savuti 25.6.
Swamp Boubou Laniarius bicolor sticturus
(3) 2 Xakanaxa 21.6, 1 Khwai community area 24.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
Crimson-breasted Shrike Laniarius atrococcineus
(1) 3 Savuti 26.6.
Brubru Nilaus afer
(3) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Savuti 24.6.
Shrikes Laniidae
Magpie Shrike Urolestes melanoleucus
(9) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Southern White-crowned Shrike Eurocephalus anguitimens
(7) Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6 and
observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Old World Orioles Oriolidae
African Golden Oriole Oriolus auratus
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 31
(1) 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6.
Drongos Dicruridae
Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Chickadees and Tits Paridae
Southern Black Tit Melaniparus niger
(6) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-21.6, Khwai community area 22.6 and Khwai community area 24.6.
Larks Alaudidae
Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis
(2) 20 Savuti 25.6 and 30 Savuti 26.6.
Fawn-colored Lark Calendulauda africanoides
(1) 4 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Seen singing in the Chobe Forest Reserve.
Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana
(3) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6, 2 Savuti 25.6 and 5 Savuti 26.6.
Bulbuls Pycnonotidae
African Red-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans nigricans
(1) 2 Khwai community area 23.6.
Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor
(5) Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 24.6 and
Savuti 27.6.
Swallows Hirundinidae
Grey-rumped Swallow Pseudhirundo griseopyga griseopyga
(3) 12 Xakanaxa 19.6, 25 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 8 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Banded Martin Riparia cincta
(2) 7 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 3 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
(1) 3 Khwai community area 23.6.
Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii smithii
(1) 20 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica
(6) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and Savuti 25.6.
Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis monteiri
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 18.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 32
Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae
Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens
(4) 1 heard Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Xakanaxa 21.6, 1 Khwai community area 23.6 and 2 Savuti 25.6.
Grassbirds and Allies Locustellidae
Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala
(1) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6.
Cisticolas and Allies Cisticolidae
Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana
(5) Khwai community area 21.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Khwai community area 24.6, Savuti
25.6 and Savuti 26.6.
Luapula Cisticola Cisticola luapula
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Chirping Cisticola Cisticola pipiens arundicola
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Desert Cisticola Cisticola aridulus
(3) Up to 40 Savuti 24-26.6.
Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava
(6) Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6 and observed Savuti 24-27.6.
Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 1 Khwai community area 23.6.
Stierling's Wren-Warbler Calamonastes stierlingi
(1) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6.
Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae
Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Hartlaub's Babbler Turdoides hartlaubii
(2) 30 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 8 Savuti 21.6.
Southern Pied Babbler Turdoides bicolor
(3) 5 Khwai community area 22.6, 20 Savuti 25.6 and 25 Savuti 26.6.
Old World Warblers Sylviidae
Chestnut-vented Warbler Sylvia subcoerulea
(1) 2 Savuti 26.6.
Yuhinas, White-eyes, and Allies Zosteropidae
African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis
(1) 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Starlings Sturnidae
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 33
Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus nordmanni
(6) Xakanaxa 18.6, Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Meves's Starling Lamprotornis mevesii
(6) Xakanaxa 19-21.6 and observed Khwai community area 22-24.6.
Burchell's Starling Lamprotornis australis
(10) Xakanaxa 18-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Oxpeckers Buphagidae
Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus africanus
(3) 4 Xakanaxa 19.6, 1 Khwai community area 24.6 and 1 Savuti 25.6.
Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorynchus
(7) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6, Savuti 26.6 and
Savuti 27.6.
Thrushes and Allies Turdidae
Groundscraper Thrush Turdus litsitsirupa
(2) 2 Khwai community area 22.6 and 4 Khwai community area 23.6.
Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae
White-browed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6.
Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 18.6.
Marico Flycatcher Melaenornis mariquensis
(2) 5 Savuti 25.6 and 1 Savuti 26.6.
Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 21.6.
African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus
(3) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6, 2 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Ant-eating Chat Myrmecocichla formicivora
(1) 1 Savuti 26.6.
Arnott's Chat Myrmecocichla arnotti arnotti
(4) Up to 12 Xakanaxa 18-21.6.
Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae
Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris
(1) 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis
(1) 4 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis mariquensis
(1) 3 Khwai community area 21.6.
White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 34
(1) 6 Chobe River, Kasane 26.6.
Old World Sparrows Passeridae
White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali
(2) 2 Khwai community area 22.6 and 2 Savuti 26.6.
Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus
(10) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Yellow-throated Petronia Gymnoris superciliaris
(3) 5 Xakanaxa 20.6, 2 Xakanaxa 21.6 and 1 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Weavers and Allies Ploceidae
Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger niger
(7) Xakanaxa 20.6, Xakanaxa 21.6, Khwai community area 22.6, Khwai community area 23.6 and
observed Savuti 24-26.6.
Scaly-feathered Weaver Sporopipes squamifrons
(2) 12 Savuti 24.6 and 6 Savuti 25.6.
Holub's Golden Weaver Ploceus xanthops
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius cabanisii
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus
(1) 40 Xakanaxa 18.6.
Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps rubriceps
(1) 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea
(10) Up to 1 Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai community area 21-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-
27.6.
Waxbills and Allies Estrildidae
Green-winged Pytilia Pytilia melba melba
(1) 1 Savuti 24.6.
Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala rendalli
(2) 12 Khwai community area 23.6 and 10 Savuti 24.6.
Jameson's Firefinch Lagonosticta rhodopareia
(2) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 2 Xakanaxa 21.6.
Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis
(9) Xakanaxa 19-21.6, observed Khwai community area 22-24.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Violet-eared Waxbill Uraeginthus granatinus
(2) 2 Savuti 24.6 and 3 Savuti 25.6.
Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild
(1) 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Black-faced Waxbill Estrilda erythronotos erythronotos
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 35
(1) 6 Savuti 26.6.
Quailfinch Ortygospiza atricollis
(2) 5 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 4 Savuti 26.6.
Indigobirds Viduidae
Shaft-tailed Whydah Vidua regia
(2) 5 Savuti 24.6 and 4 Savuti 25.6.
Seen only in non-breeding plumage.
Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae
Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis
(2) 4 Xakanaxa 20.6 and 2 Xakanaxa 21.6.
African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp
(1) 2 Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus
(5) Xakanaxa 19.6, Xakanaxa 20.6 and observed Savuti 25-27.6.
Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys
(2) 1 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 1 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Buntings, Sparrows and Allies Emberizidae
Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris
(2) 2 Xakanaxa 19.6 and 2 Xakanaxa 20.6.
Reptiles (6 in total: 6 seen)
Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced
IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the
Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient
Zimbabwe
Skinks Scincidae
African Striped Skink Trachylepis striata wahlbergi
(1) 1 Victoria Falls 28.6.
Botswana
Chameleons Chamaeleonidae
Flap-neck Chameleon Chamaeleo dilepis
(1) 1 Khwai community area 21.6.
We managed to find one of these great little creatures crossing the track.
Skinks Scincidae
African Five-lined Skink Trachylepis quinquetaeniata
(1) 2 Khwai River 22.6.
Trip Report – RWT - Botswana & Victoria Falls 2017 36
Monitor Lizards Varanidae
Nile Monitor Varanus niloticus
(1) 4 Chobe River, Kasane 26.6.
We saw a mating pair with some intruding males!
Pythonidae Pythonidae
Southern African Python Python natalensis
(2) 1 Khwai community area 21.6 and 1 Khwai community area 22.6.
Crocodiles and relatives Crocodylidae
Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus cowiei
(7) Xakanaxa 18-20.6, observed Khwai River 21-23.6 and Chobe River, Kasane 27.6.
Amphibians (1 in total: 0 seen, 1 heard)
Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced
IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the
Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient
Botswana
True frogs Ranidae
Striped Stream Frog Strongylopus fasciatus
(3) 1 heard Xakanaxa 20.6, 1 heard Khwai River 22.6 and 1 heard Khwai community area 23.6.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Rockjumper Wildlife
Division of Rockjumper Birding Ltd,
c/o Summit Trust Mauritius Limited, Labourdonnais Village,
Mapou, Mauritius
Tel (USA & Canada) toll free: 1-888-990-5552
Email: info@rockjumperwildlife.com
Website: http://www.rockjumperwildlife.com/
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