Predator Turned Prey
By Rebecca Drew
THE INCREDIBLE moment a pack of African wild dogs turned to attack a lethal hyena as it attempted to poach their dinner has been captured in a spectacular series of shots.
The stunning images and video footage shows the 120-pound hyena desperately baring its teeth as the group of attack dogs surround it by a tree. Other pictures show the two hyenas as they try to fend off the vicious attack.
Another shot shows the moment a hyena manages to escape with the dogs hot on its tail.
The amazing pictures were taken in South Luangwa, Zambia by safari guide Peter Geraerdts (47), originally from The Hague in the Netherlands.
“For most of my clients it’s a great privilege to see wild dogs, especially on a hunt,” said Peter.
“If you find them in an open area, you will most likely experience the spectacle of the hunt which mostly results in a kill.
“A lot of my safari clients had never seen wild dogs before.
“We had a pack of fourteen African wild dogs hunting in Mfuwe area and sometimes even twice daily, most favoured on the wild dogs’ menu are impala and puku.
“Sometimes, if hyenas are lurking in the area, they will follow wild dogs as they know it could mean a free meal.
“But to fight off fourteen dogs is often a tough mission for one or even two hyenas.
“Once the dogs notice the intrusive presence of the hyenas, they will chase and bite the intruders to discourage being tailed further.”
The African wild dog is listed as an endangered species due to a decrease in habitat and prey. According to the African Wildlife Foundation there are approximately 6,600 wild dogs left in the wild.
“It’s a great pleasure to have this endangered animal playing and hunting in the safari area of South Luangwa,” added Peter.
“Luckily their numbers are rising in Zambia, which is great.”
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