Every guide that I have ever known or shared stories with has one particular species that they strive to show their guests or even spend most of their guiding career trying to capture the perfect photograph…
That is why I decided to write about the “Elusive One” and do a bit of research on what the rangers at the lodge see as their ultimate sighting…
Myself, I reckon it would have to be the Bateleur Eagle. I know that many people will disagree with this, as they are bountiful in the Kruger National Park – but, I have never managed to snap the perfect photograph. I have seen them on numerous trips to the park, soaring high above in the sky – and occasionally landing on the branch of an age old Leadwood tree. But never have I had the opportunity to snap a great photo. I remember that I came really close one day, but in my excitement forgot to take the lens cap off my camera. Frantically I tried to ready myself to freeze the moment in time, but alas, another vehicle approached and my Bateleur flew off into the clear blue heavens…
Jesse on the other hand is absolutely besotted with Black Rhino. Now that, I can fully understand as the sightings are few and far between in our area. But as he had told me one morning, he has had a couple of sightings but never had the opportunity to actually 
snap that desired ideal photograph. These are the things that we strive for, because these species are the things we as Rangers/Guides maybe place on a little pedestal and more often we are becoming infatuated – maybe inadvertently.
Kris had a long discussion with me about this question and he has long been haunted by the perfect shot of a Juvenile Martial Eagle. This is probably the most attention-grabbing of the bouquet. Kris has seen this beautiful bird numerous times, especially in the Kruger Park, but never has the prospect risen for him to snap THAT photo. The photo that every Ranger wants, so that he can boast about it to his peers…
Pierre, I think, is infatuated with Leopard. He is the first to make sure that the Kruger Park trips leave before the sun even wakes… He is determined to find Leopard no matter what. I love the fact that he is ever so enthusiastic about this specific cat. And I also have to admit that on more than one occasion he has succeeded in his task. Of course, seeing one with the naked eye and capturing that “perfect shot” is worlds apart.
We all have our little obsessions when it comes to nature. Sometimes we are unaware of this, until we snap that first “perfect” safari picture. Then I can guarantee you, you will make it your life’s mission to get THAT photograph of ever “elusive one…”
Justine Ferreira