It’s been quite the year, hasn’t it? Since January, we’ve been enduring what Oxford might politely refer to as “more than what could be considered abundant” rainfall. And as we should be easing into autumn, where the bush’s vibrant hues begin to fade and we politely pretend we don’t notice winter’s approach, something strange happened this Easter….
Author Archives: Buffalo Thorn Lodge
06
Apr
Apr
“Why Musth These Elephants Be So Persistent?” This month, life on the reserve has been all about elephants—coexisting with them,avoiding them when necessary, and occasionally questioning whether they’ve secretlyformed a union and decided to take over Black Rhino entirely. With the sheer amount of rain we’ve had, finding an elephant while out on a drive…
03
Mar
Mar
So, what’s news in February? Donald Trump… Oh, wait. Never mind. We’re a game lodge. This month, there’s no grand edition—no birding special, no Christmas cheer, no “New Year, New Me” motivation. February has been all about rain, wildlife, and the occasional adventure that makes safari life so unpredictable. Monsoon Season or Just Another Summer…
As the New Year takes flight, the rains and the wind have done their part to remind us as to who is in charge, with Mother Nature leaving only the sturdiest of trees as sentinels on the landscape. The standing trees – her Business Cards. This January has been a soggy one, blessedly so, although…
As the New Year presents, it’s hard not to feel a deep sense of gratitude for the abundant and much-needed rain that we enjoyed in December. With last year still in the rear view mirror, we reflect on some of the unforgettable moments at Buffalo Thorn Lodge. Moments that left us in awe, and filled…
During 2006 when our lodge was being built there were a few beautiful Shepherds Trees growing just outside the property perimeter. They had been growing there for hundreds of years. A call was made to honor these magnificent trees and name the lodge Shepherds Tree Game Lodge. But alas, the name had already been taken….
04
Nov
Nov
Leopards have a way of captivating our hearts and sparking wonder with their beauty and mystique. With their unique rosette-spotted coats and rare, piercing yellow (and sometimes blue) eyes, these magnificent creatures hold a well-deserved place among Africa’s Big Five. Pilanesberg National Park and Black Rhino Game Reserve give us the incredible opportunity to observe…
07
Oct
Oct
The week commencing 21 September saw the whole county in a vice-like grip of icy cold weather. The wind chill factor added to the drop in temperatures. Snow in three of the major provinces were at record levels. Photos and videos on social media in and around KZN were scary to say the least. Trucks…
03
Sep
Sep
The windy month is in full swing occasionally accompanied by little dust-devils and wannabe tornados. While these weak attempts at swirling and twisting greatness are futile, they do result in us having to step up dust-patrol at the lodge. Fortunately, we are not in the league as other countries when it comes to natural disasters. Even…
07
Aug
Aug
In spite of winter chills, Buffalo Thorn Lodge has been a hive of activity and feverish excitement! The activity was in response to an event that occurred earlier in the year. On 02 March 2024 there were reports of a 3.8 magnitude earthquake 35 KMS West of the lodge. It was felt by staff and…