Zookeeper Saved from Potential Leopard Attack by a Tiger

This is the dramatic moment a zookeeper was saved from a potential leopard attack - by a tiger.

The incredible footage shows Dharma the leopard making a bounding move towards Eduardo Serio, before it is knocked off track by the tiger, called Aztlan.

Serio was being filmed up close and personal with big cats at the Black Jaguar White Tiger zoo in Mexico City.

As he leans down with a group of white lions, the leopard can be seen in the background making its move towards the front of the enclosure. There are six lions relaxing on the grass, with Aztlan the tiger only a few feet away.

Serio stands up to take a quick look around, but with the leopard possibly obscured from his view by a tree, he leans down to play with the lions. But soon Dharma begins to run towards Serio. But in a flash Aztlan is on his feet and swoops to knock the leopard off his feet.

Serio is caught unawares as both animals then run towards him. The leopard reaches a paw at Serio's leg, but a slap down from the zookeeper, and the tiger, shows Dharma who is boss.

Serio even goes as to thank the tiger for the part he just played in foiling a potential big cat attack.