In a scene reminiscent of an action-packed movie, the plains of Chitake Springs in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe, became the stage for a high-stakes confrontation between a formidable pride of 30 lions and a desperate herd of thirsty Cape Buffalo. This heart-pounding encounter, expertly captured by 62-year-old David Pinkernell, unfolds like a real-life thriller, showcasing the raw and intense dynamics of predator-prey interactions in the wild.
The dramatic saga begins as the lions target the vulnerable buffalo herd, numbering around 300, charging toward the only available water source for miles. Positioned on the edge of a cliff, David, along with his wife Carrie and friends Andrea, Brad, and Leslie, were under the guidance of their skilled safari guide, Nick Murry, owner of Bushlife Safaris.
As the buffalo approach the waterhole, a relentless battle ensues, with the adult buffaloes fiercely attempting to rescue the vulnerable calves. The back-and-forth struggle unfolds for about 10 intense minutes, creating a captivating spectacle of nature’s ferocity and resilience.
David describes the gripping moments: “While at the waterhole, a dramatic back and forth battle occurred between the lions and buffaloes; the adults were doing their best to rescue the calves, and after about 10 minutes at the waterhole, the buffaloes ran back up the hillside.”
However, the unfolding drama takes an even more heart-wrenching turn as the two male lions abandon their initial kills to pursue the wounded calves. Despite the heroic efforts of the adult buffaloes, the two calves become vulnerable targets once again, this time falling prey to the relentless pursuit of the lions.
David reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of witnessing such a rare event: “My adrenaline was running, and I got quite emotional, but this is nature, and it happens every day. It is just extremely rare to get footage of it.”
The rarity of this spectacle is emphasized by David’s extensive safari experience, spanning eight trips organized by Africa Adventure Company. Even after 150 days on safari, witnessing lion kills remained a seldom-seen event until this extraordinary day in Mana Pools.
Taking a calculated risk by embarking on the safari during the pandemic, the group found themselves practically alone in the national park, a testament to the logistical challenges overcome with the help of their travel agent, Mark Nolting from Africa Adventure Company.
“My adrenalin was running and I got quite emotional but this is nature and it happens every day. It is just extremely rare to get footage of it.”
“My wife and I have been on 8 safaris arranged by Africa Adventure Company. On three of our trips, we visited Mana Pools. In 150 days on safari, we had never seen a lion kill. On day 3 of this safari, we saw more than 4 lion kills in less than 7 minutes! It was incredibly rare! Although, only 1 successful”
