The Steenbok: Discovering Africa’s "Brick" Dwarf Antelope

A petite female Steenbok with large ears standing in the grass of the Serengeti, Tanzania.

The Steenbok: A Petite Treasure of the African Savannah

The Steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) is one of Africa’s most charming "petite treasures." Its name is derived from the Afrikaans word for "stone" or "brick," a nod to the distinct reddish-brown (brick-colored) coat that helps it blend into the arid landscapes.

Tiny but Tough: Steenbok Facts

Don’t let its size fool you. While a mature adult stands only about 20 inches at the shoulder and weighs roughly 25 pounds, the Steenbok is a master of survival.

  • Distinctive Features: They are easily identified by their oversized, sensitive ears and—in the case of males—short, needle-like upright horns.

  • Survival Tactics: When threatened, a Steenbok’s first instinct is to crouch low and hide in the grass. If discovered, it utilizes a high-speed zig-zag sprint to evade predators.

Spotting the "Small Five" in the Serengeti

We spotted this beautiful female during our recent trek through the Serengeti, Tanzania. While most people come for the lions and elephants, it’s often these smaller, delicate creatures that provide the most magical moments on a game drive.

Safari With Us in 2026 & 2027

Are you ready to discover the hidden side of the African bush? We are currently finalizing our upcoming expeditions:

  • 2026 Safaris: All seats reserved. Reservations closed.

  • 2027: We are officially fielding early inquiries for 2027. Email us here to reserve your seat.

The Northern White-crowned Shrike: East Africa’s Acrobat

A Northern white-crowned shrike with its signature black eye stripe perched on a thorny acacia branch in Tanzania.

Acrobats of the Acacia: The Northern White-Crowned Shrike

Perched high on a thorny acacia branch, the Northern white-crowned shrike (Eurocephalus ruppelli) is a master of the aerial ambush. These striking East African birds are a favorite for photographers, thanks to their bold markings and dynamic hunting style.

The "Bandit" of the Bush

The Northern white-crowned shrike is easily identified by its high-contrast plumage:

  • Distinctive Colors: A clean white crown and chest offset by deep brown wings.

  • The Signature Mask: A sharp black eye stripe that gives it the look of a tiny, feathered bandit.

Acrobatic Hunters

Don't let their size fool you; these are formidable predators. They sit stoically on their perches before performing an acrobatic dive, swooping down to snatch insects directly from the air or the ground. Watching a group of shrikes—often found in small, social parties—work a single acacia tree is a highlight of any morning game drive.

Calling all Birders for 2026 & 2027

Whether you are a seasoned "twitcher" or a casual nature lover, the avian diversity of the savannah is world-class. Join us as we return to the heart of the bush:

  • 2026 Expeditions: All seats taken. Registration is closed.

  • 2027: We are now accepting early inquiries for a Tanzanian return. Email us here for updates.

Yellow-billed Storks: Falsetto Screamers

A pair of Yellow-billed storks standing by a pond in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.

Social Media of the Savannah: The Yellow-Billed Stork

Here is a pair of Yellow-billed storks (Mycteria ibis) to brighten your Thursday morning. I found this duo hanging out by a quiet pond in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.

While they are elegant to look at, their communication style is... unique. This species is generally non-vocal, preferring to let their striking yellow bills and pink-tinged feathers do the talking. However, they aren't always silent. Ornithologists note that they can “utter hissing falsetto screams during social displays.”

Honestly? Sounds a lot like a typical morning on Facebook.

The Giants of Tarangire

Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobabs, but the birdlife around its riverbanks and seasonal ponds is equally spectacular. The Yellow-billed stork is a staple of these wetlands, often seen wading patiently in search of fish.

Travel with Us in 2027

Want to see the social displays of the African bush for yourself? Our 2026 expeditions are currently at capacity, but the gates are opening for our return to Tanzania in 2027.

  • 2027 safari: Email us here for an update.

  • Experience Creation: From “screaming” storks to the Great Migration, join our community of travelers. For a list of upcoming trips to Africa, Asia, and Europe, consult the link here.

And of course, if you want to read more about the Yellow-billed stork, check out our posts here and here.

Steppe Eagles vs. Python: Dramatic Serengeti Predator Encounters

A pair of Steppe Eagles (Aquila nipalensis) feed on a python carcass in the Serengeti grasslands.

The Opportunists: Steppe Eagles and a Serengeti Python

It’s a rare and dramatic sight: a pair of Steppe Eagles (Aquila nipalensis) devouring a python.

While snakes do not typically feature largely in their daily diet, these raptors are remarkably powerful and opportunistic hunters. They are known to dine on a wide variety of prey, including reptiles, small mammals, insects, and even carrion when the situation demands it.

A Migratory Journey in Danger

The Steppe Eagle is a true world traveler, migrating seasonally from the vast steppes of Asia to the warm savannahs of Africa. Unfortunately, this magnificent bird is currently listed as an Endangered species. The primary threats to their survival include:

  • Habitat Loss: Encroachment on their breeding and wintering grounds.

  • Electrocution: Collisions with power lines during long-distance migration.

  • Persecution: Accidental poisoning from agricultural pesticides.

Witness the Drama of the Serengeti

I photographed this particular pair in the heart of the Serengeti, Tanzania. Seeing the raw power of these eagles up close—especially during a rare predatory encounter like this—is a highlight of any game drive.

Safari With Us in 2026

Are you ready to see the apex predators of Africa for yourself? Whether it’s eagles, pythons, or the “Big Five,” our 2026 expeditions offer a front-row seat to the wonders of Creation.

  • 2026 Registration: Full. All seats reserved.

  • 2027: Experience the Serengeti with our expert team. Consult our future trip list by clicking the link here.

The Grant’s Gazelle: Lyre-Shaped Horns of the East African Plains

A large male Grant's gazelle (Nanger granti) showcasing its long, ridged, lyre-shaped horns in the East African savannah.

The Elegant Lyre: Identifying the Grant’s Gazelle

Here is another look at the Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti), a largish and graceful antelope frequently encountered across the vast landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania.

While often confused with their smaller cousins, this shot perfectly highlights their most distinctive feature: a remarkable horn set. The horns of a Grant's gazelle are a work of natural art:

  • The Shape: They taper gently from the base to the point, curving elegantly back and outward before tipping slightly inward at the top—a classic lyre-shape.

  • The Texture: Distinct rings, or ridges, are visible along the entire length, providing a rugged contrast to their sleek coats.

  • The Gender: Uniquely, both males and females of the species grow these impressive horns, using them for both territorial combat and social display.

Spotting the "Large Gazelle" on Safari

The Grant’s gazelle is better adapted to arid regions than most, allowing them to thrive even when water is scarce. Watching a herd move across the horizon is a quintessential part of any Serengeti or Maasai Mara experience.

Wander Over to Africa in 2026 & 2027

Are you ready to see the “lyres of the plains” for yourself? We are currently finalizing our upcoming rosters:

  • 2026 Safari Status: Full. Registration closed.

  • 2027 Return: We are now accepting early inquiries for our return to Tanzania. Consult our trip offerings here or email us here.

For more on Grant’s gazelle, see our post here.

Ngorongoro's Matriarchs: The Secret Society of Spotted Hyenas

A spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) walking through the short grass of the Ngorongoro Crater floor in Tanzania.

The Matriarchs of Ngorongoro: Inside Spotted Hyena Society

Meet one of the roughly 550 spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) that call the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania home. While they are often misunderstood, these carnivores possess one of the most complex social structures in the animal kingdom.

A World Ruled by Females

The hyenas within the crater are organized into eight distinct, identified clans, each operating under a strict linear hierarchy. At the top of every single clan is an alpha-female.

Unlike many other predator groups, hyena society is entirely matriarchal:

  • Female Loyalty: Female hyenas typically remain with their birth clan for their entire lives, maintaining the family legacy.

  • Male Emigration: Young males often leave their home clan upon reaching maturity, embarking on a journey to join and prove themselves in a new clan.

  • Hierarchical Status: Even the lowest-ranking female is generally dominant over the highest-ranking male.

Experience the “Laugh” of the Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater offers a unique opportunity to witness these social dynamics up close. From their eerie “whoop” calls at dawn to their strategic hunting, the spotted hyena is a highlight of any game drive.

Safari With Us

Are you ready to witness the raw power and complex intelligence of the African bush? We are returning to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro in 2026, and we want you to have a front-row seat.

  • 2026 Expeditions: Limited seats are currently available for our upcoming season. Follow the link here for details.

  • Hear the Wild: Experience the sights and sounds of the crater for yourself.

  • 2027 Expeditions: Email us here to get on the waitlist.

See another of our posts on the Spotted hyena, Redefining the Spotted Hyena: Nature’s Misunderstood Genius

The Black-bellied Bustard: Master of Grassland Camouflage

A male Black-bellied Bustard standing in the tall grass of the African savannah, showcasing its intricate black and white lacy plumage.

The Master of Disguise: The Black-Bellied Bustard

The Black-bellied Bustard (Lissotis melanogaster) is one of the most elegant ground birds of sub-Saharan Africa. While it may be smaller than its famous cousin, the Kori Bustard, what it lacks in sheer size it more than makes up for in artistic detail.

A Lacy Pattern of Protection

The male of the species is magnificently adorned in a complex, lacy pattern of black, white, and tawny brown. This isn't just for show; this "disruptive coloration" serves as the ultimate camouflage, helping the bird vanish into the shimmering heat and tall stalks of the African grasslands.

A Highlight for Birders on Safari

Identifying a Black-bellied Bustard in the wild is a rewarding challenge for any traveler. Often, you won’t see them until they perform their distinctive courtship display—a slow, rhythmic stretching of the neck followed by a sharp "popping" sound that carries across the plains.

See the Hidden Wonders of Africa in 2026 & 2027

From the "Big Five" to the masterfully camouflaged birds of the bush, our expeditions are designed for those who want to see it all.

  • 2026 Expeditions: Our current roster is nearly full—check for last-minute availability!

  • 2027 Expeditions: We are officially accepting early inquiries for our return to Tanzania. Email your questions to us here.

Nursing Mum: Elephants & 2026 Tanzania Safari

An elephant calf nursing from its mother in the wild, showcasing the unique placement of the mammary glands.

The Tender Side of the Savannah: How Elephant Calves Nurse

Is there anything more heartwarming than a nursing calf? Just look at his curled little trunk! And if you look closely at the mother—doesn't it almost look like she’s smiling?

While we all know that elephants are mammals, their biology is surprisingly similar to our own in ways you might not expect.

Surprising Elephant Anatomy

Did you know that elephants have two breasts similar to humans, rather than udders like cows or multiple rows of teats like dogs? These mammary glands are located high in the elephant's chest, tucked securely between the two front legs.

Because of this unique placement, elephant calves (and their mothers) nurse while standing upright. It is a beautiful, intimate display of the deep social bonds that define elephant herds.

Witness the Magic of the Herd in 2026

There is nothing quite like seeing a mother and calf interact in their natural habitat. If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on the plains of the Serengeti to witness these gentle giants, now is the time to act.

  • Upcoming Safari Dates: February 18–28, 2026.

  • Final Call: We are currently finalizing our roster for this expedition.

  • Experience the Wild: From nursing calves to the Great Migration, join us for an unforgettable journey through Tanzania. Check the schedule here for future trips.

Verreaux's Eagle-owl: The Silent Predator of East Africa

A large Verreaux's Eagle-owl (Bubo lacteus) with its signature pink eyelids roosting in an acacia tree in East Africa.

The Silent Assassin: Verreaux's Eagle-owl

Meet the Verreaux's Eagle-owl (Bubo lacteus), a massive raptor reaching up to 24 inches in length. While they are common to the woodlands of East Africa, spotting one requires a keen eye, as they spend their days roosting and sleeping deeply in the dense shade.

Built-In Stealth Technology

When the sun goes down, this owl becomes one of the most formidable hunters on the savannah. What makes them so deadly? It’s their natural "stealth technology."

  • Silent Flight: Small, hair-like textures line the edges of their feathers, designed specifically to break up air turbulence and eliminate the sound of wing-flapping.

  • The Drop: They drop quietly out of the absolute darkness onto their prey, which can include everything from amphibians and fish to small mammals—and even monkeys!

  • Lethal Impact: The sheer weight of this eagle-owl, combined with incredible talon strength, is designed to kill immediately upon impact.

Don't worry—if one is headed your way, you won’t hear it coming.

Experience the Night Life of Africa

From the "pink eyelids" of the Verreaux's Eagle-owl to the roar of the lions, the African night is full of mystery. Join us as we explore the best wildlife habitats in Tanzania.

  • 2026 Safari Status: Our current schedule is nearly full—check for remaining seats!

  • 2027 Expeditions: We are accepting early inquiries for our return to the bush. Email your questions to us here.

The Impala: Africa’s 55 MPH Acrobat and the "M" Brand

Getting to Know the Impala

This stately antelope (Aepyceros melampus) is a perennial crowd-favorite on any game drive. With a glossy coat of cinnamon and cream set against a bright white belly, the Impala is as elegant as it is athletic.

The "M" Brand

God has given the impala some very specific “branding.” Black hairs ring the eyes and tip the ears, head, and feet. Most famously, they sport a distinctive black “M”-shape on their buttocks.

In the guide world, there is a running joke about that marking:

"Mmmmmm," say the carnivores! It’s the “M” for Mmm-pala—the most common “fast food” on the plains. (Get it? Fast food? Ha!)

Speed and Agility

However, catching an impala is no easy task. They are masters of evasion, utilizing a combination of raw speed and high-stakes acrobatics:

  • Sprinting: They can reach speeds upwards of 55 mph.

  • Agility: They are famous for cutting sharply mid-run to lose a predator.

  • Leaping: An impala can leap 10 feet high and cover a staggering 30 feet forward in a single bound.

A Symbiotic Friendship

In the shot above, you'll notice two oxpeckers resting on this female. This is a classic example of mutualism in the wild; these birds provide a "cleaning service" by picking at parasites and ticks, while the impala provides a steady food source for the birds.

See the Impala in the Wild

While they are common, watching a herd of impalas “pronking” (leaping) across the grasslands never gets old. Join us as we explore the heart of Tanzania and Kenya.

  • 2026 Safari Dates: Limited seats are still available for our February and June expeditions.

  • 2027 Planning: We are currently accepting early inquiries for our return to the Serengeti. Email us here for more information.

For a clearer view to the “M” brand on the impala, see the posting here.

Little Bee-eater eating a Little Bee

A colorful Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) perched on a branch in Tanzania with a bee in its beak.

Emeralds of the Savannah: The Little Bee-eater in Action

How about a Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) to brighten your Tuesday morning? This particular specimen is doing exactly what its name suggests: enjoying a fresh catch!

The Art of the Aerial Hunt

The Little Bee-eater is a master of precision. These birds typically hunt from low perches, darting out to snatch insects—especially bees and wasps—directly out of the air. But how do they eat a stinging insect without getting hurt?

  • The De-Stinger: Once caught, the bird returns to its perch and repeatedly slams the bee against a hard branch.

  • The Safety Measures: This rubbing and striking motion effectively removes the stinger and exhausts the venom before the bird consumes its meal.

A Living Rainbow

Common throughout sub-Saharan Africa, these birds are gorgeously attired and impossible to miss. They sport a brilliant green back, a vibrant yellow and orange throat, and a sharp black-and-blue eye line (the superciliary stripe). I spotted this colorful hunter while exploring the landscapes of northern Tanzania.

Curious about the blue eyebrow of the Little Bee-eater? Check out our post here.

Witness Africa’s Avian Wonders

You don’t have to be an expert "birder" to be dazzled by the Little Bee-eater. Their fearless nature and bright colors make them a favorite for photographers on our game drives.

  • 2026 Safari Dates: Limited seats remain—join us to see the colors of the Serengeti for yourself.

  • 2027 Waitlist: We are now accepting inquiries for Tanzania 2027. Email us here.

Rüppell's Vulture: The Grumpy Scavenger of the Serengeti

Group of vultures competing for food on the Serengeti plains, showcasing the "greedy game" of scavengers at a fresh kill.

This bad-tempered Rüppell's Vulture (Gyps rueppelli) would have preferred to dine alone on the Serengeti plains. Unfortunately, he couldn't drive the competition off at the same time. As soon as he chased off one rival, another moved in for a bite of the sprawling carcass.

Witnessing the "Greedy Game" of Serengeti Scavengers

We watched, amused, as this greedy game of “get your head out of my cape buffalo” went on and on. Known as the efficient garbage collector of East Africa, these vultures prefer fresh kills but won't hesitate to fuss over rotting ones too.

Meet the Rüppell's Vulture (Gyps rueppelli)

Rüppell's Vulture is an efficient scavenger in East Africa. As the photo above shows, the bird’s unique scaled plumage is completely puffed out in a defensive display, shielding a buffalo carcass from rival scavengers. Its bare head and long, downy neck are on full display—useful traits that prevents gore from clinging to its feathers while it reaches deep inside a kill. This moment captures the raw, chaotic "pecking order" that defines survival on the Serengeti.

Yuck.

Care to dine on the Serengeti?

Join us as we “glamp” (glamorous camping!), eat, sing, and game drive some of the the best wildlife habitats in Tanzania.

  • 2026 Safari Status: Our current schedule is nearly full—check for remaining seats!

  • 2027 Expeditions: We are accepting early inquiries and building a wait list. Email your questions to us here.

For more on this high flying African vulture, see the post here.

Grant’s Gazelle: The Serengeti’s Arid-Land Survivor

Grant's gazelle on a Serengeti ridge in the dry season with a safari rig in the background.

The Resilient Grant’s Gazelle: A Serengeti Survival Story

A lone Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti) stands frozen on a ridge, its lyre-shaped horns silhouetted against the sky. It watches intently as a 4x4 Land Cruiser dips over the horizon. In the Serengeti National Park, this is the dance between nature and those who come to witness it.

Mastering the Arid Savanna

While many species in the Serengeti are slaves to the nearest watering hole, the Grant’s gazelle is a master of arid-land adaptation. These elegant antelopes thrive in dry environments by performing a feat of biological engineering: they extract almost all the moisture they need from the plants they eat.

Unlike their water-dependent cousins, the Thomson’s gazelle, Grant’s gazelles actually migrate in the opposite direction of the Great Migration. By heading into drier, semi-desert regions, they avoid intense competition for food. Their secret weapon is a highly efficient digestive system and large salivary glands that allow them to process tough, woody plants and “browse” (leaves and stems) that other grazers cannot stomach.

The Ultimate Game of Hide and Seek

As we drive away, I want to holler: “See you later, buddy. Keep an eye out for the cheetahs.”

The warning is a serious one. While Grant’s gazelles are larger and more powerful than other gazelles, they remain a top prize for Serengeti cheetahs. To survive, they rely on:

  • Stotting: A high-jump display used to signal their fitness to predators.

  • Speed: Clocking in at nearly 50 mph to outrun a closing threat.

  • Vigilance: Using the open ridges to spot movement from miles away.

Join Us for a Safari

There is no substitute for seeing the “Circle of Life” in person. February is the heart of the calving season in the southern Serengeti, a time when the plains are teeming with new life—and the predators that follow.

Experience the thrill of a Grant’s gazelle sighting (or the adrenaline of a cheetah chase) for yourself. Plan your Tanzania safari for 2027 and witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness.

Expedition February 2026: Now sold out. All seats taken.

Expedition 2027: Email us today to be the first to know when seats open for our next Serengeti expedition. Use the link here.

For more on Grant’s gazelle, see the post here.

The Tanzanian Red-Billed Hornbill: Meet the Real-Life Zazu

Meet the Tanzanian Red-Billed Hornbill: The Real-Life Zazu

How about a Tanzanian red-billed hornbill for your Tuesday morning? If you’ve ever seen Disney’s The Lion King, you already know this bird’s famous relative. While Zazu serves as the royal majordomo on screen, the real-life red-billed hornbill is just as full of personality.

A Unique Tanzanian Resident

This particular species, Tockus ruahae, is endemic to central Tanzania. You’ll often find them in the big parks, distinguished from other hornbills by their bright red, curved beaks and the black skin around their eyes.

Unlike many birds that stay tucked in the canopy, red-billed hornbills are frequently found on the ground. They use their powerful, slightly serrated beaks like garden tools to dig through loose soil and leaf litter for seeds, insects, beetles, and even small lizards.

The Call of the Savanna

If you’re near one, you can't miss him. Watch him bob his head down and listen to his rhythmic, clucking cry: kok kok kok kok kok kok kokok kokok kokok kokok! This distinctive bobbing display is often a territorial signal or a way to communicate with their monogamous partners.

See Them in Person

February is one of the most magical times to witness Tanzania's avian diversity. Whether they are foraging alongside mongooses (a famous symbiotic relationship where they warn each other of predators) or nesting in tree hollows, these birds are a safari highlight.

Join us for a Tanzania Wildlife Safari in February 2026!

While our current expedition is sold out, we are now accepting early interest for our 2027 Safari.

  • Join the 2027 Safari Waitlist – Don’t miss your chance to photograph the "Circle of Life" in person.