Wild animals of all kinds fill the safari. We’ve compiled the most epic sightings seen in Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Ranger Mark Fox came across this epic scene of a cheetah chasing—and missing—a herd of wildebeest. He was driving through Kruger National Park in South Africa when he witnessed this rare event. Cheetahs are famous for being the fastest big cats, so it was surprising that this one narrowly missed its prey.
Wildebeest travel in herds, which helps protect them. When they scatter, predators become confused and don’t know which antelope to chase. This cheetah might have also been lazy from the heat and didn’t put much effort into the hunt.
Another sighting by Mark Fox shows a sneaky monitor lizard stealing crocodile eggs right from under the mother croc’s nose. These lizards are small and silent, making it easy for them to slip past an unsuspecting crocodile.
Crocodile eggs are rich in nutrients, which benefit the small bodies of monitor lizards. Consuming crocodile eggs also helps keep the croc population balanced, preventing overpopulation.
Michael Moth was venturing through MalaMala Game Reserve when he spotted this magnificent sight of a pride of lions crossing a river. Like most cats, lions are fairly averse to water. They generally only traverse lakes if they need to, avoiding it at all costs.
The lionesses took charge in this instance, showing their dominance over the males. Lion prides mostly consist of lionesses, with one or two males who are close relatives. This arrangement allows for a male leader.
Mike Kirkman came across a common sight of two male impalas fighting. These bucks will often clash horns to display dominance.
Fights between males are crucial for the survival of the herd, as they determine breeding rights and which buck is in charge. The victor will have the chance to pass down his genetics and continue the lineage of the strongest impala.
Reggi Barreto of MalaMala captured this adorable scene of a pack of wild dogs enjoying a spa day in the mud. Just like domestic dogs, wild dogs love water and will splash around for fun or to keep cool.
One wild dog will most likely stand to the side and watch out for predators, as this bathing time proves to be a vulnerable period for the pack.