These two lions probably couldn’t believe their luck when they came across a docile looking buffalo, which was either completely unaware, or uninterested, in their presence.
The buffalo had put itself in a dangerous position by isolating itself from the herd, and this was seeming like it was going to be a trivial takedown for the hungry lions.
The lions had convinced themselves of their own victory so thoroughly that they didn’t seem to be in any hurry as they closed in on their prey, approaching almost in slow motion as they prepared to enjoy their meal.
Cautiously Approach The Prey
The two lions, fully aware of the danger of the beast they were about to try and bring down, approached slowly from behind. Their prey’s back legs could still be a threat, but at least they wouldn’t have to deal with the horns.
When under attack, buffalo typically form a tightly packed circle with calves in the middle and their horns facing outwards. This allows them to present a staunch defense against any hungry predators.
But, somehow, this individual had lost the rest of its herd, which meant it was terribly vulnerable, and unable to effectively defend itself against multiple lions which could attack from two directions at once.
Picking Up Speed
As the lions drew in closer and they knew that there would be no escape for their prey they began to pick up speed. As the first drew truly level with the beast, though, it quickly became clear that speed was all but pointless.
This was not an ambush, and the buffalo already knew the lions were there. Whether it was old or infirm wasn’t clear, but it made no real attempt to flee and was likely incapable of doing so, for the same reason the herd had left it behind.
Without the need to take a running leap, the lion hurried right up to behind the buffalo, paused, slightly comically, and then almost halfheartedly sank its claws into its prey’s haunches.
Too Little Too Late
When it felt the lion’s claws in its skin the buffalo finally managed to summon up some urgency. It bucked against its attacker even as the second lion joined the first and together they dragged it down to the ground.
Without the strength to throw off both lions, the buffalo’s last moments were measured in only a matter of minutes, but it was determined to struggle up until the very last moment.
It’s unlikely it would have been able to escape, even if it had decided to run earlier, but at least then it would have had a chance, however slim. Now it was doomed.
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Over And Done With
In the end, the lions did a textbook job in bringing down and finishing off their prey. When the buffalo was on the ground and unable to rise, one of the lions held it there while the other appeared to work its way up to the neck.
These two lions certainly put on a great show for the observers, making for an incredible sighting. Even if the buffalo had an unfortunate end, the lions had secured themselves a good meal, and prolonged their own survival.