Warthogs Sneak Up to Attack Baboon

In the wild, you’re never really safe; your friendly neighbor can turn into a predator in the wink of an eye. This is exactly what happened to this unsuspecting baboon when two warthogs sneak up on it before enjoying an unusual baboon-feast.

This does put Pumba from The Lion King in a slightly different light, doesn’t it?

Read to the end to watch the video!

The Crime Scene

The video opens with a seemingly ordinary scene on the African savannah, where a baboon is seen minding its own business. The calm is soon disrupted by the stealthy approach of two adult warthogs. Initially, the baboon believes them to be friends, a decision that proved to be a grave mistake.

Without warning, the warthogs suddenly pounce on the baboon. Using their horns, they throw the primate against a tree and begin to eat it alive. This shocking scene showcases a rarely seen predatory side of these usually herbivorous animals.

Are Warthogs Carnivores?

Typically known as omnivores leaning heavily towards herbivorous diets, warthogs are not commonly recognized as predators. Their diet mainly consists of grass, roots, berries, and other plant materials (and not caterpillars, as the Lion King would have us think.)

However, they are opportunistic feeders and will consume small animals and carrion. They will even, as seen in this rare footage, actively prey on even larger mammals like baboons when the opportunity arises.

What’s Warts Got to Do with It?

The name “warthog” comes from the four large wart-like protrusions found on their heads. These are not actual warts but are combinations of bone and cartilage. These structures serve several purposes, including protection during battles with other warthogs and as fat reserves during times of scarcity.

The warts, along with their large curved tusks, add to the distinctive and somewhat intimidating appearance of these animals.

Not a Pretty Face But One of the Most Clever Savannah Animals

Warthogs may not be conventionally attractive, but they are among the most intelligent animals in the savannah.

They have an amazing ability to remember water sources and grazing areas, which is crucial for surviving in the harsh African landscape. Their social structures and communication methods also reflect a high level of social intelligence.

Chunky But Fast

Despite their bulky appearance, warthogs are surprisingly agile and fast runners. They can reach speeds up to 30 mph, an essential trait for escaping predators. At the same time, this agility also aids them in hunting, as seen in the video where they swiftly overtake the baboon. Their speed, combined with their sharp tusks, makes them surprisingly good hunters.

Check out more of our content on animal attacks here!

Warthogs Sneak Up on Baboon: Closing Thoughts

The video of these relentless warthogs preying on a baboon is highly unusual but not impossible. Although it’s just the necessary rules of nature playing out, it does put our Pumba in a slightly different light.

Thank you for reading this article about the warthogs that sneak up on a baboon! If this is up your alley, you’ll probably enjoy these stories too:

• Watch: Warthog Walks Into Lioness Ambush
• Watch: Baboon Troop Attacks Suprised Leopard
• Baboon Kidnaps Lion Cub and Grooms It

Thank you for reading!

• About
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Josie Messeter

Author at Animals Around The Globe. BA Gender Studies & Literature

Josie is Swedish but has lived in South Africa for 12 years. She spends as much time as possible in the ocean or hiking in the mountains, no matter the weather. Although she adores all sorts of animals, dogs occupy the biggest spot in her heart – especially her Maltese-Chihuahua named Bootsy.

For any feedback please message to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com

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