The tour group stopped in anticipation of what would happen next when they spotted the wildebeest crossing the crocodile infested river. Cameras at the ready – the game was on.

Its a chance the wildebeest had to take, to cross the river while very aware of the ever-present danger from becoming someone’s lunch. The wildebeest may well have been trying to evade other predators or simply needed to reach nutritious grassland, vital to survival.
The rivers can be wide and deep in the savannas of eastern and southern Africa, this would result in the wildebeest being in the water for longer than it would like.
The sighting:
A crocodile frenzy
The crocodiles have become quickly aware of the wildebeest and move in for the kill. Judging its size and speed they waste no time in formulating their attack.

As the wildebeest tries to emerge from the water, there are rocks present that make navigation tricky. The tour group watch with trigger happy fingers as they take many photographs.

The crocs try to drown their prey
As the wildebeest turns a crocodile clamps its powerful jaws around its side and back with every intention to pull the wildebeest underwater and drown it. This is a common method crocodiles use when tackling large prey such as this.

A member of the tour group commented that he did not think the wildebeest would make it. They had seen a similar scenario in the past which did not end well.
Desperate moments

A moment of contemplation for all, the battle is on with two crocodiles in close sight and one underwater. They will attempt to tear the wildebeest apart before feasting.
The wildebeest however, is strong and although it has been dragged underwater, it fights back with everything it has got.

A dash to freedom
Turning and thrashing its body for all its worth to shake off its attackers the wildebeest is not done yet. Its movements do suggest it is exhausted and hurting from the ordeal.
For a few moments the crocodiles wait either side of the wildebeest, contemplating their meal, an animal weighing several hundred pounds will not be an easy kill. The wildebeest considers its next move.

Finally, the wildebeest makes a dash to the riverbank. No doubt injured and weakened, survival mode has kicked in – to stand in the river any longer would result in certain death.
A last attempt
The crocodiles follow with one making a last attempt to attack but gives up as the wildebeest makes to the shallows of the shore and relative safety of dry land.

Tourists’ relief to see the wildebeest make it
The tour group had watched the whole event with astonishment and relief. It is one thing to see this kind of event unfold on television but really something to witness, in the moment.
Did you know?
Wildebeest have very long migrations of around 1,000 miles (1,610Km), especially after the rain season to ensure a good supply of water and grasses. They are also a keystone species, as herbivores they keep grasslands from getting too tall and recycle nutrients.
Many other species also benefit from wildebeest such as scavengers whose survival depends on those that have died.
Some wildebeest perish because their migration routes get blocked through changes in land use. Habitat loss is another cause of death although thankfully, wildebeest numbers in 2009 were thought to be around 1.5 million.
Despite this many thousands of wildebeest perish annually while crossing rivers such as the River Mara which is very fast flowing.
Never trust a crocodile
Crocodiles are generalists in the food chain which basically means they will eat almost anything that moves, they are fast too. Always stay in your vehicle and follow advice from your guide. Have a happy safari!