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Hippos or Hippopotamus

 

These are large semi-aquatic mammals native to Africa, are recognizable by their distinctive features such as their huge mouths and sharp teeth. These highly territorial animals are considered one of the most dangerous in Africa, and they are herbivores, feeding on grasses at night after spending most of the day in water.

An adult hippo's weight ranges from 3,000 to 9,000 lbs for males and 2,000 to 5,000 lbs for females, with some reaching up to 11,000 lbs. They are the third largest land mammal, after elephants and rhinos.

While not known for their speed on land, hippos are strong swimmers and can move quickly in water. On land, they run at a speed of around 20 km/h, but can reach up to 30 km/h in short bursts. Despite their slow speed, hippos are powerful and aggressive, so it's best to maintain a safe distance.

In german, the hippo is translated to be a Nile horse and this possibly came from the fact that these animals also inhabitet the Nile.  The River Nile is the longest river in Africa and the main water source for Egypt and other countries in the region. Hippopotamuses are native to sub-Saharan Africa and have been known to inhabit the Nile river and its banks.
 
Hippos are primarily herbivores, and their diet consists mostly of grass. They can consume up to 150 pounds of grass per day. In addition to grass, they also eat other aquatic plants, as well as fruit that has fallen into the water. While they are primarily herbivorous, they have been known to eat small animals, such as fish, on occasion.
 
 
Sculptor Herbert Gonzo - 1991 - green verdite (Sculptor calls is Tobacco leaf Verdia)
 

Encountering a hippopotamus in the wild can be very dangerous. Here are some tips to stay safe:

  1. Stay away: Keep a safe distance from the hippo, at least 50 meters or more if possible.

  2. Avoid getting between the hippo and the water: Hippos are known to be aggressive and territorial, especially near water.

  3. Stay quiet and still: Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements, as this can startle the hippo and provoke an attack.

  4. Observe the hippo's behavior: If the hippo appears agitated or aggressive, slowly back away and leave the area.

  5. Seek high ground: If you are in a boat or on foot, move to higher ground where the hippo cannot reach you.

  6. Be cautious at night: Hippos are more active at night, so be extra cautious if you are near water after dark.