Watch Cheetahs Take Down a Buck, Then Lose Their Dinner to Pesky Crocodiles

We know that cheetahs commonly get their prey stolen by competing predators – including lions and hyenas. Nevertheless, seeing it happen right in front of you is quite upsetting for the cheetah! A group of three cheetahs has captured a waterbuck. It’s common for cheetahs to hunt alone or in small groups. They have just started to consume their prey when a large crocodile emerges from the water ready for a bite. At first, the cheetahs try to drag their meal away from the croc. However, it pursues them and eventually, they have the good sense to surrender it to the reptile for their own safety.

Watch the Full Footage Below of the Daylight Robbery at the Water Hole!

Why Do Animals Steal Pray From Others?

Stealing prey from other animals is a recognized form of hunting. It is called kleptoparasitism and a surprising number of animals are willing to do it. For the kleptoparasite, it has several advantages. They get a meal without having to expend any energy chasing after it. They also don’t have to risk getting injured in the chase. Kleptoparasitic animals include lions, bears, coyotes, and wolves.

What Do Crocodiles Normally Eat?

Nile crocodiles will eat any animal that approaches the water to take a drink. They also target animals that are having to cross rivers during migrations. Therefore, their diet is made up of a wide range of animals. It includes impala, bushbuck, and as we see here, waterbuck. They also eat giraffes, young hippos, and even lions.

The cheetahs here do the sensible thing by backing off because the crocodile would not hesitate to attack them as well! Sadly, these crocs will also eat humans.

Crocodiles Eat Rocks!

You may not be aware that they also eat rocks! The rocks in their intestinal tract can make up one percent of their body weight. Even young crocodiles are found with rocks in their stomach and the scientific name for these are gastroliths. No one is sure why the crocodiles eat rocks but it is thought that it helps to maintain their buoyancy in the water. The added weight allows them to sneak along the riverbed without animals seeing them. Also, the added weight helps them to subdue struggling prey and makes them more stable in the water!