Hippo 1 - 0 crocodile.
Israeli photographer Vadim Onishchenko captured this amazing scene in Kenya’s Masai Mara reserve.
The wildebeest, also known as a gnu, looked doomed after a crocodile launched an attack as a herd attempted to cross a river.
Vadim Onishchenko / Caters
However, help was on hand in form of this heroic hippo.
Vadim Onishchenko / Caters
Having chased the crocodile away, our hero helped push the gnu to the edge of the river and to safety.
Vadim Onishchenko / Caters
The incredible encounter is believed to have occurred in 2011.
Commenting on the courageous actions of the hippo, Onishchenko said: “I have heard of cases where the animals instinct is to protect the other species, I think the hippos parental instincts took over.
“The hippos are probably the only animal not afraid of the crocs and I would even say the hippo is the only animal the crocodiles are afraid of.
“Even our safari guide was stunned by the hippos behaviour, he said he had never seen anything like it before.
“It was certainly an unforgettable moment, I feel honoured to have seen such a spectacle.”
