The Lords and Ladies of the lodge

Dec 19, 2024

When Elisabeth was gifted two peacocks - a regal male with his shimmering train and a demure female with quiet charm - it felt like Gwango had inherited a slice of royalty. Their home, nestled beside the pond and shared with our ever GROWING brood of ducks, was built to be a haven fit for the new king and queen. But no one could have predicted how much personality and feathered flair these two birds would bring to the estate.

At first,it was pure bliss. Mornings filled with their gentle calls, the occasional flash of sparkling feathers by the water and the ducks waddling around like ladies-in-waiting to their new mister and mistress.

But apparently, life on the ground just wasn’t for them. Our feathered duo decided the game drive vehicles - mostly the ones being serviced and undergoing repairs like paint jobs - and the other cars in the compound were their personal thrones and playgrounds. Like rebellious teenagers, they still to this day, hop onto roofs, strut across hoods and strike poses that would make a supermodel jealous. And while we can’t deny they really do look majestic up there, let’s just say their “personal stamps of approval” for the work being done, aren’t the most welcome souvenirs - they leave behind footsteps, scratches and the occasional poop, much to the frustration of the mechanics and body work crew.

We’ve tried reasoning with them, of course. But what can you say to a bird that stares back at you with a look that clearly says, “I am royal; your roof is mine now”? You just learn to accept it. After all, they’re part of the Gwango family now and families come with a bit of chaos, a lot of love and the occasional mess.

What makes it all worth it, though, is watching guests light up when they spot these flamboyant birds strutting their feathers. Whether it’s their kaleidoscope of colours,their unapologetic confidence or the sheer joy they bring, the peacocks have now become an important part of our daily life here at Gwango. It’s not a good morning until you go outside and catch them mid-strut, looking down on you like they own the place.

While you are here, come join one of our Gobelo Farm Tours to get up close and personal with these feathered divas. You’ll get to see them in their glory, basking by the pond alongside the ducks, chickens and our growing family of farm animals OR perched proudly where they absolutely shouldn’t be.

We can’t wait to see you!