There are many things you may consider before going on a hike. The weather, the distance of the route, even the terrain. But how many hikers can say that they factor in the possibility of getting run down by a group of curious ostriches?
Screenshot from Jody (@previouslytheanchor) TikTok video
If it’s not already on your list, you may want to consider adding it after a group of hikers at Groenkloof Nature Reserve in Pretoria found themselves doing nature’s version of interval training when a group of ostriches unexpectedly chased them along their route.
In a video shared by TikTok user Jody (@previouslytheanchor), him and a group of friends were taking a stroll through the reserve when they spotted ostriches a short distance from the trail. Within seconds of spotting them, two of the ostriches start to strut towards the group causing them to panic and break out into a sprint to get away from a possible confrontation with the birds.
@previouslytheanchor Hiking my dear 👍🏼ke sharp #fyp #viral #hiking ♬ Originalton – vspseta
The video has racked up over 500 000 views in the two days since it was posted, with everyone in the comments laughing and commenting on what they would do in that situation.
@candicebosh: “Just run separate directions it’ll choose hard luck to whoever it chooses”
@cecev23: “Nah the ostrich would’ve caught up to me coz I would’ve tripped and fallen from laughter”
Groenkloof Nature Reserve is Africa’s first game sanctuary, located right next to Fountains Valley. The 600-hectare park is known for its scenic trails and roaming wildlife. This includes ostriches who can sprint up to 72km/h and strong enough to deliver kicks powerful and lethal enough to take down a lion.
So, to answer the question asked by TikTok user @lumi0819_: “What happens when it catches you?”, this is what wildlife experts recommend if you ever find yourself being the target of an ostrich’s attention.
- Look for cover: Head for a car, a building or if there’s nowhere else to hide, climb a tree.
- Hide: Ostriches may lose interest if you’re out of sit, consider hiding behind a big a boulder or any of the places mentioned above.
- Play dead: Lie flat, cover your head and appear non-threatening.
- Use a long object: Aim for the neck, legs or eyes.
- Protect yourself: In the most extreme situation, grab or twist the bird’s neck to disable it.
- Avoid nests or eggs: Ostriches are especially protective during breeding season making them more dangerous and unpredictable.
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