SOME FACTS ABOUT HIPPOS:
Hippos are known for their loud vocalisations, including grunts, wheezes and honks. Their signature noise, called the ‘wheeze honk’, can be heard from over half a mile away.
Hippos are considered aggressive and dangerous animals. They have large teeth and tusks that they use for fighting off threats, including humans. Adult hippos can be particularly temperamental and their young can be at risk during fights between adults. The most common hippo attacks on humans occur when they are in the water, often with humans on boats. Hippos are submerged and can be difficult to spot from the surface. They may suddenly launch themselves at boats, usually capsising them. Once a human is in the water, it is challenging to stop the attack.
Hippos are herbivores and do not eat people. They primarily attack humans as a means of self-defence when they feel threatened or when their territory is invaded.
Hippos are more likely to attack during mating season, as males can become even more aggressive during this time. It is essential to avoid getting too close to hippos during this period.
Hippos are known to attack other animals, including lions, hyenas and crocodiles. However, they generally avoid confrontations with these predators due to their size and strength.
To avoid being a victim of a hippo attack, it is crucial to keep a safe distance from them and avoid entering their territory. If you encounter a hippo while in a boat, make yourself known by tapping on the boat or speaking out loud. If you are on land, find cover behind a tree, rock or vehicle to slow down their attack and seek shelter.
Hippos can run at speeds of up to 30 mph (48 km/h), faster than the world’s fastest human. However, they can only maintain this speed for short distances. It is important to remember that humans cannot outrun a hippo in a straight line.
Hippos are most dangerous in water, where they are faster and more agile. They can sink in water and run along the river bottom instead of swimming. It is advised to avoid waterways with numerous hippos, especially during the dry season when they may be more territorial.
If you find yourself in the water during a hippo encounter, swim to the nearest bank and get out quickly. Avoid splashing around, as this can attract the attention of hippos and potentially lead to an attack.