Facing Two Bloodthirsty Predators: The Resilience of the Wildebeest
A dramatic video captured in the Serengeti National Park showcases an intense showdown on the savanna between a wildebeest and two leopards.
At the beginning of the video, a wildebeest is seen struggling against a leopard after becoming the target of an attack.
With its sharp horns and robust physique, the wildebeest makes it difficult for the leopard to approach and dominate its prey.
The even match between the two animals takes an unexpected turn when a second leopard joins the fray, putting the wildebeest at a disadvantage. However, even in this unfavorable situation, the wildebeest refuses to be overpowered by the strength of the leopards.
On the opposite side, although the leopards have the numerical advantage, they do not seem to coordinate effectively, making it challenging to take down the prey.
Leopards team up to take down the wildebeest.
In one segment, the wildebeest nearly succeeds in pushing one leopard aside, escaping their grasp and running towards a nearby herd.
However, the leopards are not easily deterred. With astonishing speed, they immediately chase after the wildebeest and once again manage to restrain it by biting its neck.
According to Paul Kirui, who recorded the video, the eventual victors are the leopards, as they finally manage to bring down the valiant wildebeest after about 30 minutes of combat.
This is a rare instance of leopards hunting in groups. Typically known as “solitary hunters,” they often struggle when facing larger prey such as wildebeests, buffaloes, or mountain goats.
Among the cat family, leopards are relatively “small” in weight and size, especially when compared to tigers and lions.
Nonetheless, they possess the ultimate weapon: incredible speed, allowing them to catch any prey on the savanna. Leopards are also considered the fastest land animals in the animal kingdom, capable of reaching speeds of up to 90-100 km/h at times.
Not only are they famous for high-speed chases, but leopards are also extremely dangerous during ambushes, stealthily stalking their prey.
This species can remain motionless for hours, waiting for the perfect moment to spring into action and seize its target. Due to their caution and meticulous planning, leopards have a very high success rate in their hunts.
