Kruger 2012: Shingwedzi Surprise...

Early morning brought cool, cloudy weather to Kruger National Park with a light drizzle. Because there was no rush to catch the best light I made my way leisurely down the one arm of the Shingwedzi River.

The early morning belonged to the birds, literally. While I saw a lot of antelope they always seemed to be in the wrong position or they moved to put a bush between me and them.

The afternoon proved to be pleasant. The day had cleared, the sun had come out, and a leopard conveniently decided to climb a tree to await my arrival. I was most chuffed. I had her all to myself for the entire session, which had it's fair share of drama.

Fish Eagle with breakfast: This poor eagle was being harassed by the hammerkop. It kept circling him and then getting a "fright" when the fish eagle looked at him. And the maribou storks were also eyeing his breakfast..

Blue waxbill: These little birds are incredible active and also shy. I was really pleased to get this shot, even if I had to crop it a bit...

I haven't identified this little finch yet but he was hanging around with the blue waxbills. Also incredibly nervous and quick to jump away this is the only shot I could get before he flitted away.

Also yet to be identified this little guy was peeping at me from around a bush. I think he belongs to the robin family. I would have loved to seem his plumage with some direct sunlight. It is a lovely orangey colour.

This guy was trying to catch up to every one else and wasn't hanging around for a photo shoot. But I still snapped him..

On the distant bank of the river lay these 3 lions. There were apparently five lions scattered about but I could only see these three. Shortly after I took the pic two of the lions got up and moved off.

And then came the leopard in the afternoon...