Guests at Footsteps witnessed an incredible and startling sighting this morning, as two lions attacked a hippo at Four Rivers’ Teal Pan.
Hippos are not usually preyed upon by lions – not only are they a fearsome opponent, but they spend much of the day submerged and hidden from sight in pools and rivers.
This particular hippo had clearly been in a territorial fight with another hippo, and was badly wounded. His injuries were serious enough for him to remain out of the water, and this is what led to his ultimate demise.
Two hungry male lions discovered the hippo standing next to Teal Pan, and as the opportunists they are, decided they were more than a match for the injured animal. However, the hippo was still extremely strong and put up a good fight against the two lions. Some five hours after they first spotted the hippo, and after a truly exhausting battle, the lions finally brought the hippo down and were rewarded with a meal fit for the king of the bush.
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Hi there
Do you have any more photos of this incredible. I have some regular Botswana travellers that go every year in July. I forwarded them the email update we receive from you, but they would like to see more if possible.
Thank you!
Hi Kate, and thanks for your message.
We do have more photos, but not of this sighting we’re afraid. Have a look at http://www.facebook.com/kerdowney for more pictures, and keep checking back here for the latest stories.