The Okavango and Termite Mounds

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the largest inland deltas.  Most of the Okavango river’s water that feeds the delta is either evaporated or transpired and none of it flows into the ocean.  Some of the water (about 2%) does feed the Lake Ngami.

The termites of the Okavango are critical to the formation of the islands in the delta.  Nearly every island was formed by a termite mound.  During the floods, termite mounds are the usually the only land formation that is above water.  This make the mounds a surveying point for animals and birds.  It offers the creatures an elevated view allowing them to seek out prey.

This pair of lions are siblings who are keeping away from a large male who is pursuing them for territory dominance.