Africa’s Big Cats Take Centre Stage on National Geographic Wild
This February, National Geographic Wild turns the spotlight on Africa’s most formidable predators with Big Cat Month, a four-week programming event dedicated to the raw power, survival instincts and shifting dominance of the continent’s iconic big cats.
Airing every Sunday from 1 to 22 February 2026, with premieres at 6 PM and 8:30 PM (CAT) on DStv Channel 182 and Starsat Channel 221, Big Cat Month delivers visually arresting storytelling and rare, intimate access to the lives of lions, leopards and cheetahs as they navigate an increasingly challenging natural world.
Big cats are symbols of strength and quiet beauty, yet they face mounting pressure from climate change, habitat loss and competition. Through cinematic visuals and immersive narratives, National Geographic Wild captures moments of triumph, loss and relentless struggle across some of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes.
February Premiere Highlights
Big Cat Planet
Sunday, 1 February at 6 PM & 8:30 PM
This powerful special challenges everything we think we know about big cats. As environments change and resources grow scarce, Africa’s top predators are forced to adapt—shifting hunting strategies, territories and behaviours in remarkable ways to survive.
Mashatu: Land of Leopards
Sunday, 8 February at 6 PM & 8:30 PM
Filmed over three years in Botswana’s Mashatu Game Reserve, this intimate documentary follows a mother leopard and her cubs in a harsh, drying landscape. Using cutting-edge low-light cameras and drone technology, the film reveals rare leopard behaviour while highlighting the growing impact of climate stress and territorial conflict.
Killer Safari: Big Cat Battle Compilation
Sunday, 15 February at 6 PM & 8:30 PM
A pulse-pounding compilation of Africa’s most intense wildlife encounters, this episode showcases dramatic ambushes, narrow escapes and unexpected threats—proving just how quickly power can shift in the wild.
Savage Kingdom: Clash of Clans Compilations
Sunday, 22 February at 6 PM & 8:30 PM
The epic saga continues in Northern Botswana, where dominance is never secure. As rival clans rise and fall, big cats fight to protect territory, bloodlines and legacy in an unforgiving landscape.
More Big Cat Stories to Watch
In addition to the weekly premieres, National Geographic Wild will air big cat–themed programming after every episode, including standout titles such as Malika: The Lion Queen, Soul of the Cat, Serengeti Speed Queen, Diary of a Teen Leopard, Leopard Kingdom, Jaguar: Jungle Icon of Guyana and The World’s Most Famous Tiger.
Big Cat Month airs exclusively on National Geographic Wild, offering a front-row seat to the beauty, brutality and resilience of Africa’s most iconic predators.
