One of the two dominant lionesses boldly leaped onto the back of a crocodile and bit its neck, securing a substantial meal for the cubs.
Guide Newton Mulenga witnessed and recorded the spectacular hunting display of a lion pride in the Busanga Plains, Zambia, as reported by Latest Sightings on November 14. The Busanga Plains is a unique ecosystem located in the northern part of Kafue National Park. Renowned for its swampy terrain that floods during the rainy season, this area becomes a hotspot for wildlife activity.
The lion pride charges towards a crocodile to hunt for food for their cubs.
While leading guests on a safari, Newton’s attention was drawn to a lion pride known in the region for their hunting prowess. Led by two lionesses nicknamed “Killing Machine” and “Princess,” they are a formidable force in the Busanga Plains. Princess is easily recognizable thanks to her tracking collar, patrolling the area alongside her sister, Killing Machine. The pride consists of 13 lions, including cubs of various ages.
They primarily hunt lechwe antelopes. However, with 13 mouths to feed, including growing cubs, a single lechwe is rarely enough to satisfy their hunger. The increasing hunger drives the pride to target larger prey. In search of food, they surrounded a large Nile crocodile. Trapped in a small marsh and too far from safe deep waters, the crocodile was highly vulnerable. Despite attempting to defend itself with fierce bites towards the lions, the solitary crocodile could not withstand the overwhelming tactics of its adversaries.
The turning point came when Princess took a daring action. She jumped onto the back of the crocodile, sinking her large fangs into the prey’s neck. The combined weight and number of lions proved too much for the crocodile, leading to its demise after a struggle.
The crocodile succumbs to the lions’ claws. (Video: Latest Sightings)
