Savute is particularly well known for its high concentration of lion, as well as for its dramatic predator interactions. The Savute lions are famed for having adapted to hunting elephant, not generally considered common prey for these cats. A power struggle for the position of dominant predator has also been documented between the lions and the area's large clans of hyena. The African wild dog, one of the continent’s most endangered carnivores, also thrives in the area.

Like the remainder of the Chobe National Park, Savute has large numbers of elephant, which are attracted to the many artificial water sources. During the drier season, elephant bulls dominate the water holes, while breeding herds may move to areas where water is more readily found. Such herds rely upon their matriarch to lead them to the best feeding and water sites, with individuals seldom straying from each other and ready to come to the aid of a family member who is in trouble.

The region is also rich in antelope, with common species such as impala and kudu encountered alongside giants such as the eland. Waterbuck may be spotted in areas with thicker vegetation, and guests may be lucky enough to catch sight of the aristocratic line of the roan and the sable.

Recent Sightings from Wildwatch.com

SAVUTE MAGIC - 19 June 2012
The famous dryland area of Savute has now turned into a wonderland of birds, especially the species that are water dependent because the Savute River is flowing again.This historic river which has a record of being dry for some time and then starts...
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LEOPARD DREAMS - 02 June 2012
On our first afternoon game drive accompanied by four guests, we came across a breeding herd of elephants about half an hour from the airstrip. The elephants were enjoying a late afternoon drink and wallowing in the mud in the afternoon sun. It was a...
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WILD DOGS FEEDING ON AN ELEPHANT - 31 May 2012
During the morning game drive on 31st of May, we came across an elephant that was lying down on the dry river bank with its legs moving. After watching the wild dogs for a long time, they rushed into the bushes. We decided to go to the other road to...
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