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The ReserveAbu Madi Game Ranch is situated on the west side of the majestic Lebombo Mountains and Ghost Mountain, with the Msengane river meandering through. This moody river is known to flood in some years, flow gently in others and then become totally dry for other periods The AnimalsFrom open acacia canopy woodland to low lying hills and rocky outcrops, these variable eco-systems support a variety of wildlife, The black rhino, White rhino, elephant, buffalo, and leopard share bushveld with majestic nyala, kudu, wilde beest, zebra, impala, mountain reedbuck, waterbuck, red duiker, grey duiker, warthog, black-back jackal, hyena, caracal, genet, blackfooted cat, white tailed mongoose, banded mongoose, antbear, suni, and other smaller creatures. Our personal favorite animal is the porcupine family that comes around the lodge every evening looking for food. These animals are nocturnal and not easily observed from close quarters, but at Abu Madi there are different family groups of porcupine which feel confident enough to visit hoping to pick up scraps of food, and are easily photographed and are a strong favorite of young and old visitors alike. The BirdsOver 310 species of birds have been recorded at Abu Madi. With the good cross-section of habitats on Abu Madi, there is an excellent variety of species. Amongst the specials are Green and Pink-throated Twinspots, Jameson's Fire finch, Heuglin's Robin, Rudd's Apalis, Purple-banded and Marico Sunbird and Paradise Whydah. The African long tailed Shrike, Red-crested Korhaan, Dark Chanting Goshawk and Giant Eagle Owls are sometime seen. The Pearlspotted Owl, Red-billed Hornbill and both the Helmeted and Crested Guinea fowl are resident. Amongst the raptors the Martial, Tawny, Brown Snake, Black breasted Snake Eagles and the Bateleur are regular, whilst the Wahlberg's Eagle has nested here. The White-backed, Lappet-faced and White-headed Vultures are regularly seen, and the Cape Vulture is sometime found in the area. A comprehensive bird list "birds of Abu Madi", in form of a booklet, has been compiled by renowned birders, and is available on sale in the office for a nominal fee Many birders choose Abu Madi for the Annual National Birding day. Special bird viewing rides have been erected at two different locations in close proximity to the water points to enable birders to view and photograph the more shy birds from close quarters. The TreesDue to the diverse topography of Abu Madi and North Zululand, this region is renowned for its great variety of fauna and flora. Abu Madi Game Ranch has an impressive range of habitats and vegetation. As well as many of the better-known trees and shrubs, Abu Madi has many rare and interesting species. Butterflies and InsectsAn extraordinary variety of insects fascinate the experienced, as well as the novice, entomologist. A wonderful sight is the butterfly amongst the shady trees along the riverbed during spring. Not to be forgotten, but greatly enjoyed, are the spiders, reptiles and 'little things' like the dung beetles, ant-lions and gorgeous dragonflies to name but a few.
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  Zebra   Pink Throated Twin Spot  Acacia xanthophloa or 'fever tree
 Garden orb - nephilidae nephila senegalensis
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