A courageous lechwe risks crossing the crocodile-infested Chobe River in search of better grazing but is pursued by a famished crocodile.
Caitlyn Earwaker, a 24-year-old veterinary nurse, and her family were on a boat cruise when they witnessed this incredible sighting. Caitlyn and Lucy Whitehead shared their story and footage with LatestSightings.com.
“As we cruised along the Chobe River in Botswana, we were treated to the sight of numerous animals coming to the river’s edge to drink. Our guide suddenly pointed out a lechwe (a large antelope with a distinctive red coat) swimming across the river. It was a peaceful scene until a crocodile emerged from the water and made a beeline for the lechwe.”
Buck Swims for Its Life!
“We all held our breath as the lechwe, sensing the danger, began to swim faster. The crocodile, determined to make a meal of the lechwe, hastened his pace. The lechwe and crocodile continued their high-speed chase across the river. The lechwe, with its powerful legs, was able to stay just ahead of the crocodile, but it was close.”
Lechwe are medium-to-large antelope that prefer marshes and river systems. They have specially adapted long legs that allow them to easily power through the water when pursued. These antelope are commonly found in areas of Botswana such as the Chobe River System.
“At one point, the crocodile snapped its jaws shut, missing the lechwe by mere inches. The lechwe, sensing that it was in the clear, began to swim towards the shore.”
“The crocodile, not ready to give up its prey, continued its pursuit. We were all amazed at the sheer athleticism and determination of both the lechwe and the crocodile. The lechwe, with its powerful legs, was able to swim faster and more efficiently than the crocodile, but the crocodile’s strength and endurance allowed it to keep up.”