26/10/2026
THE CIRCLE OF LIFE IN THE AFRICAN BUSH 🌍🐘🦁
Sadly, last week, an elephant was struck by a train and succumbed to its injuries. It was a heartbreaking loss, but even in death, its life continued to sustain others.
Over the next three days, we witnessed the incredible circle of life unfold as lions, hyenas and vultures took advantage of this natural feast.
Initially, a lone female lion, carrying an old snare wound, discovered the carcass. She was later joined by a young male lion, while vultures watched patiently from the surrounding trees, waiting for their opportunity to feed.
A hooded vulture was the first to brave the carcass, soon followed by white-backed vultures. Returning later that evening, we discovered another four more lions tucking into the feast. Their sheer strength was incredible to witness as they used their powerful claws to gain leverage while tearing at the meat.
The following morning, we returned with our guests to find hyenas feeding on what remained. Some brave white-backed and hooded vultures had also seized their opportunity, darting in to grab a meal whenever they could.
By the evening of the third day, the hyenas were still making the most of the remaining carcass, while the lion pride rested nearby with very full stomachs, watching and waiting for the hyenas to move on.
At one point, the hyenas left the carcass, only to walk straight into the path of the resting lions. A tense few minutes of vocal exchanges followed before the hyenas retreated to finish what they could.
It is remarkable to witness just how quickly nature recycles even an animal as enormous as an elephant. In just three days, the carcass had been largely consumed, leaving the tough hide and bones for insects and other smaller scavengers to continue the process.
Although the loss of an elephant is always sad, its death provided vital nourishment for numerous other species. Nothing in the bush goes to waste.
This is nature in its rawest form. Not always easy to witness, but a powerful reminder that every life plays a part in the greater circle of life. 🌿
