A clip capturing the encounter between a crocodile and a pride of lions at the Entabeni Nature Reserve in South Africa was recorded by a tourist during their visit.
(Video: Kruger).
The video shows the moment the pride of lions walks past a waterhole and spots a crocodile basking in the sun. The lions immediately demonstrate the power of the “lords of the savanna” as they charge in to attack the crocodile.
When submerged in water, a crocodile can act as the “lord” of its domain, ready to attack any creature that approaches the water’s edge. However, when on land, the lions hold a significant advantage.
In terms of appearance and weight, crocodiles surpass lions, as adult crocodiles can weigh up to a ton, while adult lions typically weigh between 270 and 300 kg. Moreover, crocodiles have a more powerful bite, capable of severely injuring an adult lion with a single snap.
It was assumed that the crocodile would struggle to escape and become a meal for the fierce pride of lions. However, the outcome of this encounter surprised many.
The crocodile fiercely defends itself while trying to move closer to the waterhole.
Despite having the numerical advantage, the pride of lions understands that confronting and subduing a large crocodile is no easy feat. Just one bite from the crocodile could severely injure a lion or even lead to its death.
Conversely, the crocodile knows that facing a pride of lions on land is a perilous act. The crocodile fiercely defends itself while attempting to inch closer to the water. Ultimately, its resistance pays off as it manages to reach the water’s edge and escape.
As soon as the crocodile leaves, the pride of lions resumes lounging beside the waterhole as if nothing had happened.
The clip of the unexpected encounter between the “lords of the savanna” and the “lords of the swamp” has gone viral after being shared on social media. Many veteran park rangers have stated that they have never witnessed an encounter between a crocodile and lions and acknowledged that the videographer was fortunate to capture this fascinating moment.
