Several species join the scene at impala kill

A Johannesburg family visiting Djuma Game Reserve in Sabi Sands two weeks ago had a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” when they spotted a pregnant impala taken down by a lone African wild dog, followed by a hyena before the carcase was stolen by a leopard.

Gabi Hotz captured the shocking, yet amazing interaction on both camera and video, sharing her footage with Lightest Sightings and garnering thousands of views on their YouTube channel.

Speaking to Lowvelder, Hotz said her passion for wildlife and conservation has resulted in her going on numerous trips to various wildlife reserves around Africa and that all who know Hotz, knows her love and respect for the bush.

“My family and I spent the a week in Djuma Sabi Sands and on Monday afternoon October 25, the universe collided in our favour,” said Hotz.

“We heard reports of a pack of African wild dog on a neighbouring property, and knowing that these predators cover a vast distance daily, we were hopeful that they would cross over onto our side.

“We sat for sundowners watching the view and taking in the peace and tranquillity around us when all of a sudden pandemonium ensued.”

ALSO READ: Kruger Station introduces South Africa’s first commercial 360-degree cinema

She said she saw a lone dog chase a pregnant impala into the water. However, a hippo, who perhaps thought it was helping the impala, pushed the terrified buck back to the water’s edge, where the animal would ultimately meet her fate.

“A gory scene followed: a hyena joined the wild dog and together, they ripped the impala’s stomach open, pulling out a fully formed foetus from its belly.

“We watched in shock and sadness for the fate of this poor impala and her unborn offspring. The hippo seemed joined in our sadness, nudging the dying impala with its nose as the hyena and dog ripped at its flesh.” Hotz said a female leopard, which the park had called Cara, arrived on the scene and “in all her might and glory, she stole the kill”.

“She was the heroine of the day,” said Hotz.

“An elephant then chased the rest of the African wild dog pack towards us and they all stood below the tree watching their friends’ hard-earned meal stolen right before their eyes. A surreal reminder that nature is cruel, and the circle of life exists. Life is fragile and raw in essence.”

However, despite the graphic nature of the sighting, Hotz said it was something not everyone could experience.
“I am grateful for the opportunities in which I get to spend in Africa, my home and the biggest piece of my heart,” she said.

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to editorial@lowvelder.co.za.

For free breaking and community news, visit Lowvelder’s website: Lowvelder

For more news and interesting articles, like Lowvelder on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram