TRUNK CALL
THE ELEPHANTS HEAD FOR THE WATERING HOLE... BUT THE HYENAS AREN’T FAR BEHIND
WORD has definitely got out about the brand new waterhole that has suddenly sprung up in the middle of Tanzania’s Mwiba Wildlife Reserve.
If there’s an animal grapevine, it’s working well. Within days of the manmade structure going up in the harsh African climate, the animals came in their droves, with more than 70 species counted in the first few days.
The animals can literally sniff out the water, and the source is a much-needed lifeline.
Chris Packham and biologist Ella AlShamahi head up the team which has built this waterhole rigged with cameras, meaning we can see intimate animal behaviours 24/7.
As the last episode ended, the previously anti-social drinkers had formed a different dynamic, with species visiting the waterhole together for protection against big beasts like lions and leopards.
As the hottest time of the year approaches, this episode studies the dynamics of nighttime at the waterhole, as it becomes busier in the cool of night.
But the nocturnal activity brings a new predator into play – hyenas, who seem to scare off even the lions.
While Chris and wildlife cameraman Bob Poole investigate this hyena clan, Ella explores how waterhole behaviour is changing.
Cape buffalo, once regulars, are now nowhere to be seen, while elephants are turning up in their hordes.
There are newcomers too, including yellow-billed storks trying to fish, as well as some trespassing cows from nearby villages.
Everything ends with a dramatic moment as the powerful hyenas surround the waterhole like animal mafia in the dead of night.