Watch the sighting here:
Something in the distance
Simeone reports that it was the first morning of their houseboat vacation and they were cruising past Fothergill Island. Still quite some way off, they could see movement but it was only as they got closer that they realised it was lions hunting impalas.
Strategic placement
She says that a pride of 22 lions had spread themselves across the plain adjacent to the water’s edge. Trapped between the lions and the water, a large herd of impalas took flight.
According to Simeone, while some lions charged at the herd, others hid themselves in ambush. As the panicked impala scattered, she says that some came within inches of being snatched by waiting lions.
In the image above, you can see how two lions have used the terrain to their advantage, hoping to surprise the impalas as they approached.
Big leap to freedom
Impalas are capable of leaping huge distances and do so regularly when fleeing predators. In the image above, one of the lionesses makes a vain attempt to snatch the impala midair.
Impalas can jump up to 10 metres (33 feet) far and three metres (10 feet) high. No doubt, this ability spared many of the impalas their lives.
Intelligent use of water
The lions’ use of both the terrain and the adjacent water to contain their prey is impressive. In effect, the water limits the impalas’ escape options, while simultaneously ‘funneling’ them to other lions in ambush.
Limited options
As its escape routes run out, one of the impala ewes makes a dash along the lakeshore. In the image below, you can see the head of the pursuing lioness, while several others force it to stay close to the water.
The noose tightens
The chase goes over all sorts of terrain–grass, sand, rocks–and the impala does well to keep its footing. However, with more lions cutting off escape, its prospects of survival are dwindling.
Successfully navigating a section of slippery rocks, the impala now has to contend with three lions simultaneously. Once again, the impala attempts to leap from danger.
Snagged!
This time, however, the lion’s midair snatching skills are up to the task. Its massive paw swats the impala, sending it crashing to the ground.
As it lands, it looks like it just might regain its footing.
Not to be
However, the pursuing lions are too close and slam it to the ground. As more arrive, they quickly swarm over their prey.
With so many mouths to feed, the little impala will do little to keep hunger at bay. Considering all the energy used by the various lions, it is doubtful.
Impala defence strategies
Besides amazing leaps, impalas are also agile runners capable of speeds of 75-90 km/h.
Additionally, by forming large herds, they find safety in numbers. As they run, impalas release a scent from a gland on the hindleg which others follow to maintain herd integrity.
Lastly, impala territories are dotted with fixed latrine sites, connected by clear avenues of escape. Again, by following the scent, impalas ensure efficient flight from danger.