In a tense encounter captured on video, a crocodile was surrounded by a pride of lions after attempting to scavenge their waterbuck kill.
The dramatic scene unfolded in Buffelshoek, within the Sabi Sands area of Greater Kruger Park, and was filmed by 61-year-old Vernon Cresswell.
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The incident began when the Talamati Pride, consisting of lionesses and cubs, had successfully hunted a male waterbuck earlier that morning.
After feeding, they left the carcass roughly 100 meters from a nearby dam. Drawn by the scent of the kill, a crocodile emerged from the water, hoping for an easy meal.
As the crocodile ventured onto land, some of the younger lions, curious about the intruder, approached to investigate. Soon, five adult lionesses joined in, sensing a potential threat to their meal.
Initially, the lions appeared to be testing the crocodile’s reflexes and speed, perhaps to gauge its strength.
The crocodile responded with a powerful snap of its jaws, attempting to defend itself. This aggression triggered the lions to launch a coordinated attack, quickly overwhelming the crocodile.
Realizing it was outmatched, the crocodile retreated to the safety of the water, disappearing into the dam.
Throughout the encounter, hippos could be heard snorting in the distance, adding to the scene’s tension.
Reflecting on the event, Cresswell shared his amazement: “We’ve been visiting the bush for 30 years, but we’ve never witnessed anything like this. It’s a reminder always to be patient and prepared—nature often rewards those who wait.”
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