Get the most out of your winter game viewing

Author PictureJuly 1, 2012, 1:28 PMBy: Fran Siebrits |5 Comments | Tags: game viewing

School holidays are here! Many families are heading to the bush, especially to Kruger, for some game viewing excitement. There are no hard and fast rules on how to do it, but it never hurts reading a few guidelines on how to maximise your sightings this winter.


Slow down!

It’s not rocket science: the slower you drive, the more you increase your time for sightings and thus the more you end up seeing. You are on holiday, so there is really no point in rushing around. Stick to nature’s pace and enjoy the ride.

The cats follow the game

Keep scanning your surroundings while viewing a cluster of game. With keen eyesight and patience, you could ensure you’re in the right place when a big cat makes its move.

Midday break
Stop off at a waterhole during the heat of the day as the animals also come seeking refreshment.

Eyes above

Scan the sky for raptors as they might point you to a kill.

Eyes behind
Keep an eye on what’s behind you. So many potential sightings are missed because all the eyes are focused  in front. If you have a car, nominate one of the kids to look out the back window for a while.

Change your view
If you are so caught up with seeing one particular animal, you may blind yourself and miss out on the rest. But if you are open to whatever comes your way, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised at your experiences.

Go with the flow
Every situation is an opportunity! If you have to stop for a tortoise to cross the road, scan your surroundings. There may be a pair of eyes watching you. Likewise, instead of getting irritated at other vehicles blocking your way, use this time to look out the windows for birds. And remember, “getting lost” is an opportunity too.
 

Add Your Comment
 
Comments
 
Rob Little says:This is great advice! I would also like to see every opportunity taken to get people to look further than the 'big 5'. The big 5 played their role in attracting people to visit Africa many decades ago, but now it is a dillema because there is so much more to see!!!!
Posted on: July 5, 2012, 3:30 PM
 
Richard Taylor says:I agree with Rob and the advice above - 100%! Too easy to tear about chasing the headline grabbing sightings - the little ones are just as wonderful and often you can have them all to yourself. Patience and diligence pays dividends!
Posted on: July 6, 2012, 9:01 AM
 
Koos Willemse says:The faster you drive the less you see. Be patient and enjoy a lazy hippo in a pool, or see a Bluewildebeest rolling in the mud. I agree with the other comments. There are much, much more to see than the big 5
Posted on: July 9, 2012, 8:01 AM
 
Helen Fenwick says:If it weren't for birdwatching I would have missed many a leopard in a tree. The birds are always there to keep us fascinated and finding the other game is an added bonus. Even watching butterflies on a pile of dung is a treat!
Posted on: July 9, 2012, 10:49 AM
 
JACK HAAN says:This is great advice. The tips mentioned really increases our interest in games and makes it more exciting and fun. Thanks for such cool tips. I will ask my friends also to go here, on this web page to get these tips.
Posted on: September 25, 2012, 10:32 AM