The breathtaking sighting was filmed in the Kapama Private Game Reserve. It was a phenomenal showcase of the raw power and unpredictable nature of both species. Both lion and hippopotamus command immense respect in their own right.
Lion approaches waterhole for a drink
The solitary male lion approached the waterhole cautiously. He was drawn to the cool water to alleviate his thirst.
Despite their dominance as apex predators, lions are often wary at watering holes, knowing that danger can lurk beneath the surface.
Hippo emerges suddenly from the water
The lion crouched low and began to drink, his rough tongue lapping quietly. Just beneath the calm exterior of the water, a territorial hippopotamus watched him and began to approach him.
Hippos are among the most aggressive animals in Africa, fiercely protective of their space. Despite their bulky size, they can move at surprising speed, both in water and on land.
Males can weigh up to 1 800kg and possess canines that can grow over half a metre long. They are responsible for more human deaths in Africa each year than any other large mammal.
As the lion continued to drink, the hippo suddenly emerged from the water, and started to charge towards the lion.
The moment transformed from peaceful to chaotic in seconds. The lion sprang backward, startled by the eruption of power. With its massive mouth open wide, the hippo charged with astonishing speed.
Breathtaking moment as lion and hippo lock eyes
Lions are used to confrontation, but not usually from an opponent like this. While lions may occasionally prey on young or weak hippos, they generally avoid adults.
A single bite from a hippo could crush bones, and their sheer weight and force make them nearly unstoppable in water.
In the wild, it is always important to know when to fight and when to flee. This lion exercised wisdom and decided that an attempt at fighting was not worth it.
Lion turns to retreat from charging hippo
The hippo splashed towards the lion. It was clearly not happy!
Recognising the danger, the lion began to retreat, tail low. It glanced back warily as it put distance between itself and the enraged giant.
The hippo continued its charge for several metres, sending ripples through the water before stopping to assert its dominance.
It lifted its massive head and its jaws opened in a display of intimidation. It made sure that the lion knew that this was its territory, and intruders would not be tolerated.
Hippos spend much of their day submerged, keeping their skin cool and moist. They emerge mostly at night to graze on grass, sometimes traveling several kilometres from water.
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Their temperament can shift from calm to violent in seconds, particularly when they feel threatened or when their calves are nearby.
Lions, on the other hand, depend on waterholes for both hydration and as strategic points where they can look out for prey which might arrive for a drink of water.
Yet every visit to a waterhole carries a risk, as this encounter demonstrated.