If you’ve ever wondered how effective a lion’s camouflage is, this video provides excellent proof. As you’ll see, a wildebeest failed to spot them in the open, with disastrous consequences.
Francis Kijazi sent this dramatic footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it while conducting a game drive in Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park.
Lone gnu
As we join Francis at the sighting, we see a lone brindled gnu walking past a waterhole. As a herd antelope, it is unusual to see it on its own.
One of the chief defences of wildebeest lies in finding safety in numbers. When isolated, they make easier targets for predators.
Lions
Subsequently, as the gnu proceeds, we see four lions lying low at the water’s edge. They are well aware of the gnu and watch it without moving a muscle.
This is critical in ensuring the effectiveness of their camouflage. Any sudden movement might catch the wildebeest’s attention.
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Blissfully unaware
Consequently, the antelope remains blissfully unaware of the lions as it walks past them. However, at this time, the lions’ attention seems to be focused elsewhere, possibly on other targets.
Additionally, the lions want to make sure their target is within range before attacking. Move too soon, and they will fail.
For some reason, however, the lions then turn their attention back to the passing wildebeest. But is it too late?
The hunt is on
Strangely, it is the lioness furthest from their target that decides to launch the assault. Rising silently, she quickly picks up pace.
In just a few strides, she reaches a maximum speed of around 85 km/h. The hunt is on.
Subsequently, a young male gives chase, too. Even so, the wildebeest is still unaware of the approaching danger.
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Speed vs endurance
Finally, the wildebeest notices the rapidly approaching tawny blur of the two lions. Immediately, it springs into action, hoping to outpace the predators.
While wildebeest are slightly slower than lions, they have greater endurance over long distances.
However, since the lioness was already at full speed when the gnu spotted her, she quickly gained ground on her fleeing prey.
Seems too easy
Consequently, she quickly catches up to her target. With a mighty leap, she manages to sink her claws into the gnu’s rump.
Then, using her massive strength, she pulls the distressed animal to the ground. It almost seems too easy.
In a flash, the lioness bites into the wildebeest’s spine before pinning it to the ground. As she does, she grabs it by the throat, beginning the process of death by asphyxiation.
By the time the young male arrives, the fallen gnu barely shows any resistance. This may be because, as Francis told Latest Sightings, the wildebeest was sick beforehand.
Whatever the reason, his video ends as the rest of the lions gather to feed. If only every hunt were so easy.
