Can this zebra escape a deadly crocodile’s jaws? Watch heart-wrenching, tense, BBC footage of a perilous battle at the river’s edge

Each year, zebra herds are forced to cross crocodile-infested rivers in search of food and water. In this gripping BBC Earth video, see how these powerful animals use teamwork and courage to survive one of nature’s most dangerous tests.

Crocodile vs zebra: watch the BBC Earth footage

River crossings are dangerous, with predators lurking in the shallows, waiting to strike.

In this BBC Earth footage, we see a herd of zebras crossing a river – with crocodiles waiting in the wings.

Although their bodies aren’t adapted for swimming, zebras are strong swimmers and skilled at crossing rivers and lakes.

Even so, deep water is perilous, and many fall victim to predators.

Teamwork is vital. The crocodiles wait, menacingly, but they know that while they can prey on zebras, a zebra’s kick can be just as deadly.

This article by Freya Parr was first published by Discover Wildlife on 16 November 2025. Lead Image: A common or plains zebra jumping over a crocodile, Masai Mara, Kenya (credit: Getty Images).