Man Attacked by Hyenas at Bachelor Party Says His Dad Found Him in ‘Pool of Blood’: ‘Had to Fight to Survive’ (Exclusive)

Man Attacked by Hyenas Recounts Harrowing Experience as His Father Saves Him from Mortal Danger

Nicolas Hohls, a 27-year-old man from Strydgewon Farm in Harburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is currently on the road to recovery after a terrifying encounter with two hyenas during a bachelor party celebration at Cape Vidal Nature Reserve in St. Lucia. The incident took place in the early hours of the morning, when Hohls was jolted awake by the vicious predators attacking him in his tent. As he struggled to fend off the hyenas, his father, Colin, who was sleeping in a rooftop tent nearby, rushed to his son’s aid upon hearing his screams. The situation quickly escalated into a life-or-death battle, with Hohls having to rely on sheer instinct and courage to survive.

Recounting the harrowing ordeal, Hohls described how one of the hyenas clamped down on his cheek and skull, while the other latched onto his left ankle. In a desperate bid to escape the predators’ grip, he resorted to fighting back ferociously, targeting their vulnerable spots such as their eyes and throat. Despite sustaining severe injuries, including deep puncture wounds on his head, hand, cheek, ankle, and thigh, Hohls managed to break free from the hyenas’ attack and was swiftly rushed to Ballito hospital by his father. The swift actions of Colin undoubtedly played a crucial role in saving his son’s life, as Hohls found himself in a pool of blood within the tent before being rescued.

Reflecting on the traumatic experience, Hohls emphasised the critical role played by his instincts and adrenaline in enabling his survival. He highlighted the intense combat that ensued during the brief encounter with the hyenas, describing it as a minute of sheer horror. Despite the physical and emotional trauma he endured, Hohls expressed gratitude for being alive and credited his resilience for overcoming the life-threatening situation. Doctors have estimated a month-long recovery period for Hohls, who has undergone extensive medical procedures, including receiving approximately 30 stitches to address his injuries. Fortunately, no bones were broken during the attack, and Hohls is progressing well in his healing journey under medical supervision.

Cape Vidal Nature Reserve, where the incident took place, is yet to provide a statement regarding the attack. The unsettling encounter serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with wildlife interactions, particularly in natural habitats where human-wildlife encounters can turn fatal. Hohls’ experience underscores the unpredictable nature of such encounters and the need for vigilance when exploring wilderness areas inhabited by potentially dangerous animals. As Hohls continues his recovery process, his courage and determination in the face of grave danger serve as an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit when faced with unimaginable challenges.

While the specifics of the attack shed light on the complex dynamics of human-wildlife interactions, Hohls’ survival story is a poignant reminder of the importance of preparedness and swift action in the face of unexpected threats. The swift response of his father in rescuing him from the hyenas’ assault underscores the invaluable role of loved ones in times of crisis. As Hohls navigates the physical and emotional aftermath of the attack, his journey towards recovery stands as a testament to the indomitable will to survive amidst adversity. The incident serves as a cautionary tale of the inherent dangers lurking in the wild and reinforces the need for heightened awareness and caution when venturing into untamed environments.

In conclusion, Nicolas Hohls’ ordeal at Cape Vidal Nature Reserve serves as a powerful testament to the fragility of human life in the face of nature’s unforgiving forces. His remarkable survival in the face of imminent danger stands as a testament to the resilience and courage that can emerge in moments of crisis. As he embarks on the road to recovery, Hohls’ story serves as a sobering reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife in shared environments, urging caution and vigilance when traversing the natural world.