Watch: Terrapin invades lions’ personal space at waterhole
Lions backed off from a waterhole in surprise when they were approached by a terrapin that came out of the water and right up to their faces.
A terrapin fearlessly approached a lion and a lioness that were trying to drink from a waterhole.
According to an article published by Latest Sightings, safari guide Reggi Barreto captured the moment at MalaMala Private Game Reserve in the greater Kruger National Park.
While Barreto was observing the pair drinking at a waterhole after a zebra hunt, a terrapin surfaced and boldly approached the lion.
Despite the lion’s size, the turtle showed no fear, making eye contact with the lion and appearing to sniff its blood-stained muzzle.
The turtle then approached a lioness drinking nearby.
While the turtle’s actions gave the appearance of chasing the lions away from the waterhole, Barreto concludes that it was more likely drawn to the blood on their faces.
Either way, the lions didn’t stick around to find out.
