A brutal crocodile attack on a lone hippopotamus was caught on video recently at a river in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. The shocking footage shows over 100 crocodiles viciously swarming and repeatedly biting the large hippo over the course of several minutes.

The horrific incident took place as the hippo was attempting to cross the Mara River during its nightly grazing. Within seconds of entering the river, over 50 crocodiles emerged from the water and began latching onto the legs and underside of the panicked hippo.

Over the next few minutes, more crocodiles joined the frenzy, violently thrashing in the water as they pulled and snapped their powerful jaws on the hippo’s body. The hippo struggled in vain to get away, loudly bellowing in fear and agony amidst the feeding frenzy.

After managing to break free multiple times, the grossly outnumbered hippo finally succumbed to blood loss and exhaustion. The attacking crocodiles proceeded to tear apart their massive victim, with the entire swarm gorging on the remains.

While crocodile attacks are common occurrences, experts were shocked at both the sheer number of crocodiles involved as well as the boldness of their assault. Most predators avoid fully grown hippos due to their immense size and dangerous teeth and horns. Conservationists fear changing climate patterns and dwindling resources may be forcing crocodiles into more daring and aggressive hunting behaviors.

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