The Okavango Delta is home to a large number of species, including semi-aquatic species, such as the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga. Families of hippo hide in the deeper channels and lagoons, while the unique Delta environment supports many minute but beautiful species, including multicoloured frogs and incandescent dragonflies. The area supports the continent’s largest surviving concentration of elephant and buffalo, while roan and sable antelope roam the open woodlands. Nxabega means place of the giraffe and these elegant animals are abundant in the surrounding areas.  

One of the most common antelope in the Okavango, the red lechwe is especially adapted for the swampy conditions it lives in. Its splayed, elongated hooves give it a sure footing, allowing it to inhabit the outskirts of the permanent swamps. The Okavango is also a stronghold for the endangered African wild dog, although sightings of this rare animal are relatively uncommon. Exhibiting a fascinating social structure, wild dog live in packs led by a dominant pair, with a strict social hierarchy. Although particularly nocturnal and difficult to spot, leopard live in the dense riverine thickets of the Delta.

With an incredible wealth of species, the Okavango is a haven for birding enthusiasts. One of its most sought after species is the huge but elusive Pel’s fishing owl, which roosts in the densest evergreen thickets. A quintessential African sound, the haunting call of the fish eagle can be heard echoing over the channels of the Okavango. The Delta also boasts the largest population of the endangered wattled crane, a large and beautiful species. The African jacana, with its extraordinarily long toes, skims along the top of floating vegetation, giving the impression that it is walking on water.         

Recent Sightings from Wildwatch.com

THE DAY OF A RANGER - 25 March 2013
We started off as early as possible on our morning game drive. We had seen two lions and a lioness the night before and interestingly the dominant male took the lioness behind the bushes and got to see the reaction of the subordinate male, he did not...
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HYENA DEN AT NXABEGA - 18 August 2012
There has been a lot of hyena activity at Nxabega. This is because the guides have found an active den site. It seems that there are 7 adults and 3 young ones. The sightings have been incredible; mothers sucking their young to socialising and the odd...
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IT'S A BIRD! NO WAIT, IT'S A BAT! - 12 August 2012
While on the boat cruise through the papyrus channels that Nxabega is well known for, we noticed what seemed to be a bird hawking insects from the water lilies. As we approached it became evident that it was not a bird but a bat! I managed to snap some...
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