Solo Hunter, Singular Focus
In this intense sighting filmed by South African traveller, photographer, and blogger Marissa van Heerden, an incredible example of the predator-prey dynamic is on full display. A single spotted hyena, known more often as a scavenger or pack hunter, decides to take on an ambitious challenge.
It has managed to isolate a fully grown kudu and seeks to bring it down all on its own! It’s not often you see a hyena opt for a solo pursuit of such a large and powerful antelope, but this individual was clearly determined.
A Tactical Trap
The chase ends in a strategic advantage for the hyena. It manages to force the kudu into a muddy waterhole, where its mobility and options for escape are limited.
Cornered and bogged down, the kudu has no choice but to stand its ground. It swings its spiralled horns and kicks out with desperate power, but the hyena is patient and calculated.
It circles, waits, and then goes for a vulnerable spot: the tail. Grabbing hold and anchoring itself, the hyena begins the takedown in the most brutal and primal way possible.
Exhausting prey over a long period of time is a strategy commonly used by hyenas, and was perfectly demonstrated in this particular battle.
The High Cost of Survival
The kudu doesn’t give up without a fight, though. Its grunts and cries of distress echo across the landscape, and it continues to buck, twist, and try to flee.
The hyena is relentless, however, and doesn’t let go. Eventually, the kudu’s tail is torn off in the struggle, blood marking the muddy water and signalling the beginning of the end.
With no backup and its strength dwindling, the kudu collapses. It is defeated not by a pack, but by a lone predator with unshakable resolve!
Why Hyenas Hunt Alone
Although hyenas are often associated with clans and cooperative hunts, they are also skillful solitary hunters. In areas with less competition or during times of opportunity, a hyena may pursue prey alone, particularly if they are injured, isolated, or weakened.
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Their powerful jaws, stamina, and high intelligence make them formidable opponents. Solo hunts like this are risky but can pay off big, especially when scavenging opportunities are scarce or competition with other apex predators is intense.
The Harsh Realities of Nature
Nature is not always neat or kind. This raw and uncomfortable encounter reminds us of the sheer determination it takes to survive in the African wilderness.
Both predator and prey demonstrate immense strength and resilience, but in the end, only one can prevail. Hyenas are survivors, and this display proves their prowess goes far beyond scavenging.
It’s a story of grit, and instinct, while being a testament to the intelligence and perseverance of one of Africa’s most misunderstood predators. The hyena, often cast as a villain, shows just how adaptive and capable it truly is.
Marissa was fortunate to have been able to capture such a rare and dramatic takedown. While it may be difficult for viewers to watch, encounters like this are part of the natural order where survival demands strength, strategy, and sometimes, sheer audacity.
Hyperactive Baby Hippo Scares Everyone In The Waterhole
This amusing video was sent to Latest Sightings by Isa Carter. She filmed it at a water hole in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
I’m bored!
It’s often said that an “only child” can be a challenge, especially for friends and neighbours. And, judging by the events in this video, the same is true in the animal kingdom.
As Isa’s video begins, we see a lone hippo calf standing on the banks of its water hole. In the background, a herd of zebras await their turn to come down for a drink.
Amusing itself
It would seem that it has no one to socialise with. Nevertheless, as it runs around, it appears quite content to burn off the excess energy of youth on it’s own.
After charging around on the water’s edge for a while, it decides to return to the water, seemingly delighted at the big splash it makes.
For a chubby calf, it is surprisingly light-footed. As it takes to the water, it continues to amuse Isa and her companions with its antics. Quite what the rest of the onlookers think is open to debate.
Its mother, seen in the foreground above, seems content to watch the calf at play. Like any harried mum, she is probably enjoying a moment alone.
Thirsty zebras
Meanwhile, when the rambunctious calf took to the water, the zebras headed down to the water to slake their thirst. However, when the calf notices them, it cocks its ears in interest.
Potential playmates?
Consequently, it would seem that the calf saw the new arrivals as potential playmates. Subsequently, the over-enthusiastic calf set off towards the zebras with all the joys of youth.
Unfortunately for the little hippo, his barrelling approach was a bit much for the skittish zebras. In response, they turned and trotted away from the water’s edge.
By the time he emerged from the water, the zebras had retreated to the nearby treeline. Evidently, the hippos’ behaviour was a bit much when all they wanted was a quiet drink.
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Abundant energy
Nonetheless, their disappearance did little to dampen the calf’s enthusiasm. He had energy to spare and was going to burn it off one way or the other. Even if it meant playing with elephant dung…
As Isa’s video draws to an end, the little hippo, undeterred, continued to charge up and down on the lakeshore.
And, despite his protestations of innocent fun, the zebras in the background remained unwilling to join in the fun.
Playful practice
As amusing as the young hippo’s behaviour is, it actually serves an important part of its early development. Playtime for young animals is the time when they will learn the various skills necessary for long-term survival.
Hippos are highly territorial creatures, particularly in their aquatic homes. As such, while the calf may not be doing so intentionally, it is employing various behaviours that in later life will help it assert its territorial dominance.
These include charging towards intruders, patrolling the domain, and gaping jaw displays. Of course, at this stage in its life, it is all in the spirit of play.
However, later in life, these skills may mean the difference between life and death. Whatever the outcome, for us as observers, they’re both fascinating and fun to observe.
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