Buck Swims for its Life from Crocodile

A brave lechwe attempts to cross the crocodile-infested Chobe River in search of greener pastures but gets chased by a hungry crocodile.


“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.”

“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.”

Crocodiles, being such large reptiles, do not commonly hunt prey by chasing it down. They tend to prefer stalking and ambushing. However, they will not pass up the opportunity when presented.

“As the lechwe reached the shore, we all let out a collective sigh of relief. It was a truly incredible experience to witness such a dramatic and intense struggle. The Chobe River is truly a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty and drama of this stunning region.”

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[mouradoran]

This buck is a real warrior it's just spectacular how he swims and kicks the croco.

[chazwx]

Never had any idea that an animal like that could swim that fast and graceful.

[sirnetflix]

Everyone: Cheering for the prey
The croc: I’m just trying to eat man

[chiemekaa]

Frankly astonished at the buck's swim speed!

[leafkoala]

The croc's speed is shocking. Thank God for the antelope's instincts to jump at the end to free himself from the water. That was one determined croc. Unbelievable.

[joet]

Both the croc and the herbivore* were MOVING! Unbelievable how hard the antelope-thingy* was swimming!

[doltbezoar]

I cannot believe my eyes - that buck was an Olympian swimmer for sure. So glad he made it.

[harish]

The buck pushed its limit as if there is no tomorrow and became the survival of the fittest, amazing footage thanks for posting this!

[hanko]

Sheer drama in it’s purest, primordial form. The buck, in its prime, swimming for survival, whilst the croc, built for the water, closing fast. Fantastic footage reaching a crescendo of excitement.

[cambiata]

My heart was in my throat for that whole thing. I know carnivores have to eat, too, and they serve an important environmental function, but I was really happy to see the buck make it out.

[Rocko]

This is a Lechwe antelope: they are swamp/water antelopes and swim very well. But the stamina and speed of this one are insane! It outswam a very fast croc for a long time and even when grabbed it managed to escape.
It’s also clear that that croc was a “small” one. With a big one this would have ended differently.

Edit: And what it’s more unbelievable is the way he managed to jump at the end of the big river, just like it have just crossed a small stream of water 😮

[zakcadan]

The speed of that croc homing in on its prey was downright terrifying!!! Kudos to the person(s) behind the camera for capturing this entire scenario. Excellent job👌

[pet]

It's so thrilling to watch, luckily it's a small crocodile.

[thomasrodriguez]

The croc has its tail to push it forward at great speeds, but the deer. Man I can only imagine how quick he was paddling his skinny legs. That's what you call, determination to live.

[joycejones]

“Wow that was amazing I know the crocodile has to eat but the buck was saying “ Lord give me strength to run this race from the crocodile 😂

[penniesuegreene]

My heart was pounding.watching this!
I'm so happy that beautiful baby got a way 😁

[szilivamarsa]

Wow he really does deserve to live and pass on his genes!! Amazing!

[tonyarios]

The few second distraction from your boat and filming just might of helped save that beautiful creature's life! Thank You for sharing stay safe stay blessed in JESUS Name AMEN 💞

[spotemgotement.reloaded]

The antelope can swim really good and it looks cool leaping in the water even though it's swimming for deer life.

[Les]

You folks saved his life and thank you so very much for that.