This incredible sighting from andBeyond offers a breathtaking glimpse into the powerful dynamics which can play out at the scene of a kill.
Pride of lions attracts game viewers’ attention
A kill is no small event in the bushveld, as was evidenced here.
A pride of lions was sighted just off the road. The road was muddy in the aftermath of heavy rain.
These lions had recently made a kill, and were both muddy and bloody. They were definitely a pride to be reckoned with, including some respectably-sized male lions.
They stood around a kill, with dirty coats; fixated on their feed. Their stomachs appeared to be full and they eyed both the game vehicle and something in the distance.
This ‘something in the distance’ turned out to be a clan of hyenas. Their presence was about to change the narrative.
The hyenas were a vocal bunch, communicating with what sounded like laughter between themselves. They stood as a united front, determined to get the kill away from the lions.
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Hyenas are known to scavenge for leftovers at kill sites, however, they are not always scavengers. In fact, spotted hyenas are highly effective predators and often kill much of the food they eat themselves.
Spotted hyenas can hunt animals ranging from small mammals to large prey such as wildebeest and zebra. They are particularly successful because they hunt cooperatively in groups and can chase prey over long distances.
As scavengers, their powerful jaws and teeth allow them to crush and consume bones which many other predators leave behind. They will readily steal or feed from kills made by lions, leopards and other predators when the opportunity arises.
In a memorable moment, they stood side by side and confronted the lions, making loud, cackling sounds.
Hyenas manage to gain access to the kill
The ecstatic hyenas swarmed the area; the scent of a kill fresh in the air. When the lions had suitably backed away from the kill, they closed in for a feed.
The lions hadn’t left too much behind… possibly the reason for their swollen bellies! However, these hyenas didn’t seem to mind so much. A kill is currency in the bushveld and they fed like they had won the lottery.
The lions, however, weren’t about to let things go so easily. They kept returning to the kill site; with growls of intimidation.
There was more than one tug of war between the two species; each vying for ownership of the kill. It was a moment of high energy, as the primal need to feed dominated the stage.
At one point, a black-backed jackal could be seen arriving… another opportunist in this dramatic display of raw power and hunger. The jackal was highly brave to have stepped onto the stage of this volatile encounter between a clan of hyenas and a pride of lions. However, if the little guy could get a few bites of food, then his display of courage would definitely have been worth it!
Witness wildlife at its finest
These breathtaking encounters happen every day in the bushveld. Oftentimes our followers manage to capture them through dramatic film displays such as this one. Click here to join our WhatsApp group to get regular sightings updates.
