Namibia
Etosha Waterholes
Suedo
Sueda waterhole takes its name from the ink bush, Sueda articulata, which grows in the vicinity. The southern edge of the pan looks more like a sandy beach along this barren stretch and this site is situated in a depression, overlooked by the road which connects with nearby Salvadora. Each waterhole has a large parking area with plenty of potential pull-over spots when travelling between them.
In September 2013, on my wife and I`s first visit to Namibia, I was just moments away from the parking area at Suedo but had to stop as a couple of cars had halted beside one another, effectively blocking the road. The occupants would have no doubt had a terrific, unobstructed view of this African Wildcat as it strolled past.
These elusive predators are most often spotted at waterholes, where they will lie in ambush, waiting to pounce on birds such as doves and sand grouse when they come to drink. Other prey species taken are rodents, insects and even very small antelope.Regrettably, these were the best shots I could manage. |
The source at Sueda is a natural, seasonal contact spring but with a very high saline content. Because of this, most animals prefer to drink at Salvadora, apart from the local lions who seem to like it here. At first glance it looks as if the Suedo waterhole would make an ideal picnic spot, however, three lions are resting here, all concealed behind large tufts of grass towards the left of the above image.
The occupants of several stationary vehicles had their attention focused on the area so we sat tight. Our patience was eventually rewarded when the first lion, a female stretched out, breaking cover. Eventually she stood up and wandered over for a long drink.
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Above: A lone Hartebeest wanders along the rim of the depression at Suedo, totally unaware of the potential threat below.
It looked as though this lioness was fascinated by her reflection. After slaking her thirst she headed over the salt flats to seek out a spot with more shade.
Another two lions, tremendously well hidden, soon popped into view. Both were male with one `caught short`, possibly as a result of a dodgy Zebra curry the night before! After the trio had settled back down together, and as they were quite far off, we decided to move on and try our luck at Salvadora.
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