An overview
Getting back into the Valley each year is really exciting and the team are always itching to get out and see what has changed in the 6 months of our absence. There are few better ways to do this than by air to gain a great overview.
One of the big attractions in the early season is the Stork Colony, in the heart of the NSefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park – so this naturally would be one of the first stops. The stork colony this year has swelled in size, linked with the high rainfall the area received this emerald season… but more on that in the Stork Colony diary entry.
Another firm favourite is checking on the elephant and buffalo numbers – John is a firm believer that buffalo are a reliable indicator species for the condition of an ecosystem. With that as a guide, the Nsefu Sector is in great form with good numbers of buffalo in several herds dotted across the park. The animals look to be in spectacular condition too on account of all the grazing available.
Turning to the tree tops
Turning and heading inland one moves across the impressive Mutanda Plains and toward the Chichele Salt Pan. It is the time of year that the wooden banana tree (Entandrophragma caudatum) foliage turns a bright yellow and sticks out in the canopy. Soaring over forest thickets these are easy to pick out amidst the dense green foliage.
The wildlife
John pointed out a tower of giraffe looking very intently in one direction, so we followed their gaze to see what we could find and came across the Nsefu Pride of lions, going about their morning business, and looking in very healthy condition.
Conservation through tourism
While taking stock of the state of things is important, it is also key to maintain focus on the risks faced by such a remote and game-rich environment.
John pointed out a well-established poaching camp. Microlight flights constantly provide a means to keep an eye open for any signs of poaching – drying racks, poachers, snared animals or camps. This information is relayed to Conservation South Luangwa, who then take the necessary steps on the ground. They do a brilliant job of reducing poaching impacts in South Luangwa.
That said, it is not all doom and gloom – there is much to be grateful for and it is a stark reminder that our presence in these remote locations plays a very significant role in keeping a tab on poaching and animal well-being, so a big thank you must go out to everyone that visits our camps for supporting us in these efforts.
