A Rare Encounter with One of Africa’s Most Elusive Predators

There are certain moments on safari that offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of life in the wild. One such moment unfolded recently on Borana Conservancy, when our guides and guests encountered a female leopard and her two young cubs at Ngare Teri Lagha. Nearby was a sub-adult male leopard, and together they were feeding on the carcass of a male impala.

For many, spotting a leopard is reason enough to celebrate as one of Africa’s most elusive predators, but to encounter not only a female but also her cubs is particularly special. Yet what happened next serves as an important reminder that survival in the wild is never straightforward – a hyena arrived on the scene and successfully claimed the kill. 

While often misunderstood, hyenas are among Africa’s most intelligent and adaptable predators, experts at identifying opportunities and stealing food from other predators when the chance arises. Leopards, on the other hand, rely on stealth, patience and immense strength to catch their prey. A successful hunt can take hours and may only happen after numerous failed attempts. 

Later in the day, the mother leopard returned to the site and recovered what remained of the carcass for her cubs. For young leopards, these moments are critical. Every interaction becomes a lesson in survival, teaching them where to find food, how to navigate threats and ultimately how to fend for themselves.

For guests visiting Lengishu, encounters like these offer a deeper understanding of what conservation truly means. Wildlife conservation is often viewed through the lens of protecting individual animals, but in reality it is about safeguarding entire ecosystems. This is why game drives at Lengishu are about far more than ticking species off a list. Accompanied by expert guides and rangers, guests are encouraged to look beyond the sighting itself and understand the behaviours, relationships and ecological dynamics unfolding before them.