Watch the Sighting:
Valentin Lavis is a private photographic safari guide working for Le Guide Safari. She was out on her first game drive of the morning with some guests in Masai Mara, hoping to enjoy some interesting sightings, but her guests may have gotten more than they bargained for.
Their day began serenely when the group discovered a lion pride resting on some rocks. Unfortunately, the lions seemed not to be in the mood to entertain, offering little action for Valentin’s group.
Deciding to explore what else the day had to offer, they continued their journey towards the Sand River that borders the Tanzanian Serengeti.
The Safari Takes a Dramatic Turn
The group was just about to make their initial stop for breakfast when all of a sudden movement in the tall grass caught their attention. To their surprise, they discovered a female leopard clearly on the prowl.
At first, it appeared her eyes were set on a small herd of reedbucks grazing nearby, but then something else caught her attention. A new target had emerged, and the leopard adjusted her strategy with calculated precision.
Valentin made the ethical decision to keep her vehicle at a good distance from the female leopard to give her the greatest chance at a successful hunt. “We decided to give her enough space to ensure we do not reveal her presence – hoping that she will be successful.”
The group soon realized that the hunting leopardess had her attention fixed on the dense bushes where two serval were mating. Two distracted and vulnerable targets made for a hunting opportunity too good to pass up!
Swift and Unforgiving
In a matter of seconds, the leopardess launched her attack, zeroing in on her target — the male serval. She attacked with ferocity, claws outstretched, and the chase was over nearly as quickly as it began.
As her prey fell, she grabbed it by the back of its neck with lethal intent, and at that moment, Valentin knew it was over for the poor male.
The group watched with heavy hearts as the male serval desperately tried to struggle out of the leopardess’ maw but with no success. Eventually, the leopardess claimed her prize as the serval gave up its fight.
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Clash of the Cats
Although it may seem that most predators would tend to keep away from each other in the wild, this is far from the truth. From wild dogs to hyenas, even apex predators like leopards must ensure dominance by reducing rivals in the food chain.
This powerful encounter highlights a harsh truth of the wild: predators will eliminate competition whenever possible. While servals pose no direct threat to leopards, they share overlapping diets, making them a target when the opportunity arises.
Respecting Boundaries: Observing Without Interference
Valentin and her group did the right thing by staying back and letting the animals have space. Even though witnessing an animal’s death can be difficult and emotional, it is important to let nature run its course.
While on safari, it is easy to influence the behaviour of the animals at a sighting if you are too close. Always respect nature’s boundaries and stay quiet to minimize your presence at a sight.