“Oh My Gosh” – Woman Captures Dramatic Lions vs Warthog Scene on Her Safari

Continue reading for our analysis...

This lucky warthog had such a lucky escape thanks to some speedy moves. At the start of the clip, we see the unsuspecting hog wander towards some trees completely oblivious to the fact that it is being watched by around seven lions! As they make their move, the warthog dashes it and survives!

Keep reading to learn more!

How Do Lions Normally Hunt?

It may not have been successful on this occasion, but this hunting method is usually highly effective for lions. In this sort of environment, they are very well camouflaged and can sneak up on prey without being seen.

Normally, female lions hunt as a group as it gives them a better chance of being successful. It is not unusual to see this many female lions hunting together. Their typical strategy is to stalk the target, waiting for the ideal opportunity to attack. They do this by crouching with their bodies low to the ground – it is a slow and patient approach. Lions are willing to spend at least half an hour or longer doing this. Gradually, they get creep closer to the prey but if it looks up, they freeze!

Once the animal is within striking range, they attack! Lions are pretty speedy and can reach 28-37 mph in short bursts. They do not like very prolonged chases as they use up too much energy. Also, lions like to be tactical and use some members of the pride to cut the prey off by running ahead of it. The lions here did not manage to do this and the hog made its escape!

What Animals Do Lions Prey On?

Lions are generalist hunters and can live off a wide range of prey. However, they tend to target two or three species in their particular habitats and become experts in how to catch them.

In Africa, medium and large ungulates (animals with hooves) make up the bulk of most lion’s diets. Candidates for this list include zebras, warthogs, blue wildebeests, impalas, buffalos, and waterbucks.

However, some lions also scavenge food from other predators such as cheetahs, leopards, or spotted hyenas. Perhaps this group of lions had to resort to that tactic after their lack of success with the warthog.

Is It Normal for a Warthog to Outrun Lions?

Warthogs can generally run up to 30 mph if necessary. That doesn’t really compare to a lion, which can reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph. Both animals typically achieve these speeds in short bursts. Given the comparison, lions definitely have the edge on speed.

What’s interesting is that warthogs have the ability to make quick, unpredictable turns, allowing them to out-maneuver predators in pursuit in some cases. Ironically, in the case of the warthog in the video, it made a straight beeline away from the lions, who didn’t seem to make much effort to pursue it.