Every year during the Great Wildebeest Migration, millions of wildebeest must brave croc-infested river crossings. While most make it, some are much luckier than others.
Luke Street from Wild Eye Safaris submitted this incredible footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it from the banks of the Mara River in East Africa.
Head above water. Just.
As Luke’s video begins, we see the head of a blue wildebeest, also known as a brindled gnu, sticking out of the water.
Although it is close to the rocky shore, something is preventing it from making the distance.
Our first hint of what it might be is when the animal’s head dips below the water before managing to lift it again.
Feeding bonanza
Moments later, the head of a massive Nile crocodile confirms our suspicions as it rises just behind the wildebeest.
For the crocodiles of the Mara River, the migration crossings represent a huge seasonal feeding bonanza. And it looks like this beast is about to be rewarded for its patience.
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Into deep water
As we watch with bated breath, the crocodile pushes its prey towards deeper water.
Since it cannot kill an animal this size with a single bite, it must grab it and pull it underwater to drown it.
Can’t get a grip
However, we catch a glimpse of hope for the wildebeest as the croc repeatedly tries to bite it and drag it under without success.
Even though it seizes the gnu across its abdomen, for some reason it can’t hold on.
Problems multiply
Subsequently, the wildebeest’s problems are multiplied when we see another smaller croc lurking nearby.
At the same time, the poor gnu is pulled under. Surely this must be the end.
Too soon to celebrate
Then, just when we begin to lose hope for the wildebeest, it suddenly finds its feet and stands in the middle of the river.
While there is no sign of the first croc, the second one is still close, so it is far too soon to celebrate. For all we know, the larger reptile is holding its prey by the leg.
Wait! What?
What happens next defies explanation. When the first croc resurfaces, instead of attacking, it turns and swims away.
As it does, we hear someone say they suspect it has been chased off by another even larger croc.
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Not over yet
Initially, the wildebeest can’t believe its good fortune. After taking a few moments to catch its breath, it heads to to the far shore.
However, as it does, the second croc senses an opportunity and sets off in pursuit. Meanwhile, the exhausted wildebeest can only trudge towards the shore.
Predictably, the croc attacks. Amazingly, although it appears to grab the gnu’s leg, it can’t hold on.
Too big
Incredibly, the croc gives up, perhaps realising that it is too small to tackle the wildebeest.
Accordingly, the video ends on a happy note as the wildebeest reaches dry land.
Although exhausted, it looks unharmed. Talk about the one that got away!