A chilling video has captured the moment when a game drive turned nearly tragic after a leopard lunged towards a tour van during a game drive and came face to face with a visibly shaken ranger. The ranger remained calm during the encounter with the leopard. The incident at Krugler National Park has gone viral on social media. Many held their breaths while watching the moment the ranger encountered the wild cat. In the clip and photos circulating widely, the ranger maintained his calm after the leopard hopped onto the tour van and looked him in the eye.
So calm was the ranger that he yanked out his phone to take some pictures while avoiding direct eye contact with the animal. The leopard sniffed him for a minute before disembarking from the tour van and going about his day. Other tourists in the van also remained calm and quiet and only took photos silently during the incredible safari. Tour company releases statement A statement by the tour company also confirmed the rare encounter, saying the incident was unprecedented. “We wish to address an unfortunate incident involving a young male leopard that has recently displayed unusually inquisitive behavior towards the safari vehicles. Footage has been shared showing this young leopard jumping on the vehicle,” the statement read in part. The lodge clarified that it does not encourage this type of interaction with wild animals during safaris to protect tourists and rangers.
“Our strict protocols are designed to protect both our guests and the wildlife we are privileged to observe, ensuring that all encounters happen safely and respectfully. Guest safety, responsible wildlife viewing, and the respectful preservation of natural behavior are at the heart of everything we do,” the statement indicated.The video and photos have gone viral, with many safari lovers particularly reacting to the incident while also praising the ranger for maintaining his calm. Many said they would have panicked and probably provoked the leopard, leading to an ugly turn of events. Here are some of the comments: Fto Fivee said: “This man did one awesome job. He didn’t stare into that animal’s eyes, for that is a sign of aggression and the cat species, especially the big cats. If that had been a male lion, he wouldn’t have done what that leopard did. I guarantee it he would have come right out of a show on these videos.”
Sikhosana Sinenhlanhla said: “Humans can be so ungrateful. You willingly enter an animal’s territory just to snap a photo, ignoring the clear warning signs, and then complain when the creature shows natural curiosity.” Jeanette McDonald Mostert said: “He is an excellent guide. I would have been petrified if I had been on that vehicle. Congratulations on your bravery.” Antoinette Bezuidenhout said: “Well done to the ranger! It’s not something anyone promotes, but being in their territory, they may be curious. But this was incredible to see how calm (on the outside 😉) the ranger was and how his calm demeanor kept the leopard calm as well. Well done, and what an incredible moment!.” Avoid animal attacks during a safari Though going on a safari in Kenya and other African countries can be an exhilarating experience, following safety protocols is important.
The Kenya Wildlife Services advises tourists to stay in tour vehicles at all times during their game drives and only alight from the vehicles and when the tour guide terms in safe. This is because wild animals find vehicles non-threatening, but humans as potential prey and a threat. Secondly, maintaining a safe distance is important during sightings at game drives. Following the guide’s rules is paramount to staying safe, as the rangers tend to understand animals’ behavior and can advise accordingly.
by Racheal Nyaguthie
