A blind eland walks into a pride of lions that are busy stalking it. When the eland hears the lions run in on it, it’s too late.
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Francis Kijazi captured the entire hunt on camera and shared it with LatestSightings.com.
“We had found a pride of lions that were spending their morning lazing around in the tall grass that envelopes the Serengeti plains. Uninterested in their surroundings and unbothered by the vast amount of game that were feeding on the plains.”
— WATCH —
“It all changed when one of the lions picked up the movement of a large eland heading their way. As a guide in the Serengeti for many years, I have become very familiar with all of the animals, and this particular eland was no stranger. It was a blind eland that was a frequent visitor to this particular area.”
Blind eland walks into hunting lions!
Elands are the largest antelope species in Africa and can weigh up to 1000 kg (2200 lbs) and stand up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) tall at the shoulder. They are generally found in grasslands and woodlands across eastern and southern Africa.
“The pride of lions remained still in the tall grass as the eland came closer and closer. The eland, oblivious to the danger that lurked in the grass, continued running straight for the waiting lions.”
As for why this particular eland was blind, it’s hard to say for sure. It could have been the result of an injury or infection that damaged its eyes, or it may have been born with a genetic condition that affected its sight. Whatever the reason, it was clear that this animal was at a serious disadvantage when it came to avoiding predators like lions.
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“The eland suddenly became aware of the lions and tried to run away, but it was too late. The lions had already closed in, and soon they were all over the eland, bringing it down with a flurry of teeth and claws.”
“As a safari guide, I’ve seen my fair share of predator-prey interactions, but this one was particularly memorable.” “While it was sad to see the eland meet its end in such a violent way, it was also a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the animals that call this harsh landscape home.”