The sighting, filmed by ranger Geraldine Stain in Ngala Private Game Reserve, begins dramatically. A large male lion is already in motion, running downhill at full speed as an enraged rhino charges after him.
Dust kicks up beneath their feet as the lion makes a hasty getaway, clearly recognizing that this is one opponent not worth challenging. However, as the scene unfolds, it becomes clear that the situation is more complex than it first appeared.
Two lion cubs appeared on the hillside where the rhino and adult lion had come from and were watching the chase with wide-eyed curiosity.
Whatever the male lion did to anger the rhino, he seemed to have learned his lesson and was now giving it the space it needed. One of the cubs, on the other hand, seemed far less convinced of the danger…
An Overconfident Cub
In a bold move, it followed after the rhino, earning some laughs from within the safari vehicle. Someone points out that the “cub is still young and does not have experience”, as it trots forward as though attempting to hunt the rhino many times its size.
Like many young animals, lion cubs learn the rules of survival through observation, imitation, and often, trial and error. They frequently practice hunting behaviours on anything that moves, and these playful pursuits are key for them to develop their coordination, confidence, and social skills.
As we can see in this case, however, cubs lack the experience to accurately assess risk, which can place them in dangerous situations if not closely monitored by adults. Fortunately, this cub never got close enough for real danger to unfold.
The Rhino’s Perspective
The rhino, in a state of agitation, remained highly alert. Although they have excellent hearing and a strong sense of smell, rhinos have poor eyesight, making sudden movements, unfamiliar shapes, or perceived threats capable of escalating their stress levels.
With the lions and safari vehicle too close for comfort, the rhino’s agitation became increasingly apparent. It began to advance slowly toward the vehicle, head low and body tense.
When Tension Peaks
Recognizing the danger, the driver responded calmly and correctly by slowly reversing to give the rhino space and the right of way. In a typical display of agitation, the rhino reiterated its warning by bucking and flinging sand into the air with its horn.
The vehicle held its position as the rhino crossed the valley, eventually disappearing into the bushes on the other side and leaving behind a group of fascinated and relieved onlookers.
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The driver’s reaction was crucial when dealing with large, unpredictable animals. Rhinos often charge as a bluff, but they are capable of inflicting severe damage if they feel cornered or threatened.
When in doubt, always give animals as much space as possible to avoid dangerous situations for both you and the animals.
Final Thoughts
Encounters between rhinos and lions are not uncommon, particularly in areas where both species overlap. Lions may occasionally target rhino calves, which makes adult rhinos highly defensive.
Even the presence of lions alone can trigger aggressive behaviour, as rhinos prefer to eliminate potential threats before they escalate. Adult lions, on the other hand, are well aware of the risks, leading to them to choose retreat over confrontation.
Young lions must learn their place in the ecosystem by watching the choices of those who have survived before them. This sighting perfectly captured the contrast between the cub’s youthful curiosity and hard-earned experience.
Perhaps after this experience, the cub will have a better gauge on the danger involved when dealing with an agitated rhino.