Wildebeest protect a newborn calf from hungry Jackals. In the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, we could see and hear a herd of Wildebeest in the distance and they appeared highly agitated. As we approached we could see several Jackals running around. It was then that we saw a newborn calf lying on the ground and it was this that was attracting these hungry jackals. The calf’s mother was doing her best to shield her calf from the jackals. Other members of the herd joined in trying to protect the calf – an impressive joint endeavour. Twice we saw a Jackal grab the calf by one of its hind legs and drag it to the ground. But each time the Wildebeest chased the Jackal away. At first the calf could barely stand but over the ensuing several minutes it was able to stand and then walk around. It is very impressive how these calves are quickly able to walk and then run. As the calf got to its feet and with the help of the herd they saw off the Jackals and the calf ran off with its mother and the herd. A fascinating encounter as a herd of Wildebeest protect a newborn calf from hungry Jackals. A good outcome for the Wildebeest but the Jackals went hungry!
Key words: Kenya, Kenyan, Africa, African, Maasai Mara, Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Kicheche, Bush Camp, wildlife, nature, animals, conservation, safari, Wildebeest, herd, calf, newborn, young, jackal, jackals, hunt, chase