When i saw the Burchell's Coucal it was already attacking the chameleon. The chameleon's defense tactics seemingly only aided the Coucal. The chameleon will flatten itself to make itself look bigger and will open its mouth. Unfortunately the ruthless Coucal just seized the opportunity to grab the gaping chameleon by the mouth.

For over 10 minutes i watched as the Coucal did everything it could to get the chameleon off the branch it clung to, often using its full weight to try and pull the chameleon free.

But the resilient chameleon hung on for dear life. Twice the Coucal flew off, seemingly to rest, and came back to try again.

When i left, the chameleon was still alive. On returning an hour later, the chameleon was gone.

An incredibly epic sighting!

Some may be surprised to know that the coucal would eat the chameleon, but this charming, shy bird, with it's babbling rhythmic call that often foretells the onset of rain, giving it the gentle nickname of The Rain Bird, is a ruthless killer! Yes, it will eat small rodents, reptiles, insects, etc but it will also rob bird nests, devouring eggs and even eating hatchlings and young birds alive!

Great stories played out in the Greater Kruger National Park!