However, it soon realised crossing the road was too much of a risk and took an about turn, sprinting in the opposite direction.
The memorable sighting was filmed by Mark Fox of Foxy’s on Safari in the Kruger National Park.
Wild dogs gather in and alongside road
A large pack of African wild dogs entertained motorists as they gathered in full view, in a road in the reserve. They were an energetic, frenzied group and beautiful to watch because of their interactions.
Wild dogs are among the most social carnivores in Africa. Their packs can grow to large numbers. They typically consist of two to 27 individuals, but packs of up to 40 members have been recorded.
The entire group is incredibly cooperative, not only in hunting but also in raising pups and caring for sick or injured members.
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They are also among the most successful hunters in the African savannah. They have a kill rate of 70 to 90 percent. This is far higher than that of leopard and even lions!
This is because of their coordinated tactics, and high endurance. When wild dogs choose to act in unison, they come together like a frenzied swarm of zeal, energy and strategy.
Pack members hold the attention of motorists
The energetic pack didn’t seem to mind to much that their were hyenas nearby. They continued to interact and explore the area in and around the road.
This was when a wildebeest appeared on the scene. The hefty animal made its way towards the road, oblivious to the large pack of wild dogs which were gathered there.
Unsuspecting wildebeest emerges from the bushes
Wild dogs will only hunt wildebeest under certain circumstances. Wildebeest, especially adults, are much larger and stronger than the typical prey of wild dogs, such as steenbok and impalas.
As a result, wild dogs rarely target a healthy adult wildebeest unless the pack is large, well-coordinated, and the circumstances are favourable.
In this case, the pack was rather large and the wildebeest faced trouble.
Wildebeest foolishly chooses to cross the road
The animal walked towards the road, becoming more hesitant when it saw the wild dogs. However, it continued to walk.
What was at the other side of the road must have been compelling enough for it to choose to brave the wild dogs, instead of retreating. Perhaps the grass really was greener on the other side!
It continued to walk, with the wild dogs dancing about it, posturing themselves to attack.
More and more wild dogs surrounded it and it seemed to realise that crossing the road possibly wasn’t a good decision after all.
Wildebeest turns to run back to where it came from
It quickly turned, with the wild dogs continuing to gather in a threatening stance around it. Keeping its wits about it, it began to run, moving as fast as it could back in the direction it had come from.
The wild dogs continued to look its direction. If the wildebeest was smart, it wouldn’t return this way.
