All animals must drink. Without water, they simply cannot survive. However, there is a catch.
Predators recognise this dependence and consequently often position themselves near water, knowing that sooner or later, their prey will come to them.
Zebras at the waterhole.
And, it is just such a scenario that unfolds in this video. At first glance, we see a herd of zebras visiting the waterhole.
While several of them are busy drinking, others stand guard a short distance away. Should any threat be detected, they will alert their kin with their distinctive braying alarm calls.
Tense circumstances
Even at the best of times, zebras are skittish around water. Ancient memory tells them that this is the most likely time for an attack to occur.
Accordingly, as we watch, the herd scatters from time to time. They are not willing to take any chances. And with good reason.
Lurking danger
For in their midst, danger is lurking. As you can see, just below the elephant’s tusk in the image below, a crocodile is lying in wait. Only its back is visible, seemingly confusing the zebras.
Even though the zebras are just a few feet away, the croc bides its time, waiting for one to come within striking distance.
It would appear that this is the reason for the zebras’ skittish behaviour. However, they are clearly desperate to drink. Time and again, they return to the water, eager to slake their thirst.
Increasingly tense situation
Consequently, the situation becomes increasingly tense. The zebras must drink as surely as the crocodile must eat.
Eventually, after having just fled, the zebras return en masse to drink. Will this be the occasion when one of them gets within striking distance?
On tenterhooks
Initially, the zebras drink in a rare moment of peace. However, with the air of imminent threat pervading, we know it is only a matter of time before pandemonium returns.
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In the electric atmosphere, any small thing could spook the zebras. And, eventually, it does. Unfortunately, we don’t see what specifically causes the panic, only that the herd suddenly decides to bolt once more.
As they do, one of the zebras gallops through the water just inches away from the submerged crocodile. Sensing that this is the moment it had been waiting for, the massive reptile strikes.
However, the crocodile has made an error. Either through impatience or miscalculation, it has struck too early. As the reptile’s powerful jaws snap shut, all it can catch is a mouthful of mud.
Back for more
Consequently, all the zebras escape unharmed, their alarm calls ringing through the air. But have they learnt their lesson, or will they soon forget as the imperative to drink returns?
With no other option, the croc once again sinks below the waterline. No doubt it realises that, while it may have been unsuccessful on this occasion, the zebra will be back.
And, next time, perhaps it will be a bit more patient. Considering that crocs can go for more than a year without eating, we think the odds are stacked in their favour.