Our Close Encounter :- Facing The Fury Of A Hippo Charge
After an early wake-up call, our group of travellers, led by Nelson, had breakfast and set out into the darkness. Our goal for the morning was to locate a pack of African wild dogs that were rumoured to be nearby. The drive began calmly, with a soft mist lingering and the sounds of the African bush gradually coming to life. Nelson pointed out a number of new species along the journey. as we absorbed the sounds and smells that you get on early morning drives. However, our primary aim was to find the wild dogs which we’d seen on our journey to the first camp
As we progressed on our drive, we met another group searching for the wild dogs. But it seemed that no one, including a research group, had successfully found them for a few days. Nonetheless, there was still plenty of wildlife to see. After a few hours, we joined up with our other truck who had also failed to locate the dogs. After sharing our observations, we continued to one of the many ponds inhabited by a pod of hippos feeding in the pool. We finally stopped at a much smaller pool where a massive solitary hippo appeared to be taking a break. Little did we know that this peaceful scene was about to change.
The Solitary Hippo
In a matter of minutes, as we stopped to take pictures of the hippo the 3+ ton male unexpectedly stood up in the middle of the pool and moved towards our vehicle.
This hippo, possibly isolated from its herd, appeared to be displaying some sort of territorial behaviour. Our guide, Nelson, swiftly moved the vehicle to avoid danger, but the hippo continued its pursuit. Now at some pace. leaving the pool and heading straight for our vehicle.
After a few tense minutes, and our vehicle reaching speeds of nearly 30 mph the hippo finally gave up its pursuit and wandered away. Now well out of its territory we were all able to breathe a sigh of relief and continued on our drive. We reunited with the rest of our team who had captured the thrilling encounter on video. The encounter was both frightening and exciting, as the massive creature ran towards us with its jaws wide open. Reminding us of both the speed and strength of these creatures and why hippos are considered the most dangerous terrestrial animals in the African bush. With male hippos often fiercely defending their territories.
Despite the brief moment of fear, the incident had provided some incredible photo opportunities for some action shots. The powerful and massive hippo, combined with the speed and agility of our guide’s driving, made for some truly unforgettable images.
Rest and a Coffee Break
After driving well away from the pool we met up for coffee and biscuits with the rest of our group to review the encounter they had caught on video. The experience left a big impression on us and was a humbling reminder of the majesty and power of the amo,als of the African bush. Also the whole experience was a sobering reminder of how important it is to respect the animals and their territories.
Although we didn’t manage to see the wild dogs that morning, the unexpected encounter with the hippo made for an unforgettable experience, plus some great images for the scrapbook and a story for the folks back home .