Hippos are well known for being aquatic, but will you find a hippo swimming in the sea?
HIPPOPOTAMUSES are among the largest and heaviest land mammals, falling just behind the elephants.
Despite its weight and short legs, a hippopotamus can run up to 30 km/h over short distances, and they inhabit rivers, lakes, and mangrove swamps. Based on what we see in documentaries and even in the zoo, these creatures usually prefer to stay in freshwater areas or even the mud to keep themselves cool.
But, is it true that hippopotamuses can be found in the sea?
Verdict:
TRUE
This is surprisingly true! In some parts of Africa, where hippopotamuses originate from, they can be found in the sea.
But it is a rare sight, compared to seeing them in freshwater like rivers and ponds.
That being said, they are not like fishes, turtles, and other sea creatures, which depend on the salty seawater to live.
Hippopotamuses are able to hold their breath for up to five minutes and swim across the sea as well as survive it and are most likely swimming through the sea to get to another location.
These aquatic mammals still prefer fresh water as their habitat, as it provides the essential nutrients and balance for them to survive. Not to mention, freshwater bodies are closer to their food, which includes grass and fallen fruits.
As 'cute' as they may seem to be, the hippo is one of Africa's most dangerous animals.
The hippopotamus is one of Africa's most feared animals. On average, the semi-aquatic mammal kills 500 people a year.
In fact, it's the planet's deadliest mammal (after human that is) as the highly territorial animal kills an estimated 500 people a year making it nearly twice as deadly as lions.
If you want to get an up-close view of these 'river horses' in Malaysia, you could make your way to Zoo Negara or the Paya Indah Wetlands.
In 2021, one of the hippopotamuses, Cendana, gave birth to its calf Comel in the Paya Indah Wetlands, and the herd is being observed and taken care of by the Wildlife Department.
And if you ever see a hippopotamus swimming by the sea, it's either one of two things - you are dreaming or you are no longer in Malaysia. Either way, run as fast as you can!
References:
1. https://animalsresearch.com/
2. https://www.worldwildlife.org/
3. https://www.thestar.com.my/
4. https://www.zoonegara.my/ex_
6. https://www.
