KEYHOLE

Framed by the dense bush, a lone spotted hyena stood motionless, its gaze fixed to one side, observing the drama unfolding in the distance.

A sharp, explosive chuff from an impala broke the early morning calm—a clear alarm call signaling danger. Somewhere nearby, a leopard’s patient ambush had been foiled by the sharp-eyed vigilance of the herd.

As the antelope scattered, the leopard abandoned its cover, retreating with deliberate steps through the long grass. The predator’s hunt was over, its stealth undone by the impala’s warning cries. But the scene had not gone unwitnessed. Off to the side, the hyena remained, silent and unmoving, watching every move of the retreating cat.

Spotted hyenas are often misunderstood. Known for their powerful scavenging abilities, they are also skilled hunters, with success rates that rival or even exceed those of lions. But this one seemed content to bide its time, perhaps hoping the leopard had made a kill and left behind scraps. When nothing materialized, the hyena sniffed the air, its large, sensitive nose probing for any overlooked opportunities.

The bush gradually returned to stillness, save for the soft, nasal clucking of a yellow-billed hornbill perched nearby, its repetitive call a counterpoint to the fading drama. The hyena took one last measured look at the scene before turning and ambling off into the undergrowth.

In the wild, patience is a strategy, and for the hyena, it often pays off. These intelligent animals thrive not only by scavenging but by reading the environment with uncanny precision. Their acute sense of smell can detect a carcass from several kilometers away, while their adaptability ensures they rarely leave empty-handed.

This lone hyena, though unsuccessful here, exemplifies the quiet resilience of a predator attuned to its surroundings. With each step, it disappeared into the bush, ready to capitalize on whatever the wilderness offered next.

Raw Africa Collection

Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, the life giving.

This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.

Sony A1, Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL: 200mm, S: 1/500s, A: F3.2, ISO: 3,200.