Instagram – Feb 15, 2022 @ 15:00

Happy #WorldHippoDay!⁣

Africa’s third largest land mammal, the Common Hippopotamus can spend up to 16 hours a day submerged in water, holding their breath for an amazing 5-6 minutes at a time. When on the move in water, it may look like they are swimming, but in actual fact they are bouncing across the river floor, a movement which allows them to move incredibly quickly! On land, speed definitely isn’t an issue either and hippos can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour – and that is despite their extremely stocky builds.⁣

Currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, hippo populations have been decreasing as their habitats shrink due to habitat destruction and urbanisation. It has become vital for game reserves and protected areas to provide a safe haven for these magnificent creatures.⁣

Images by @timeandtideafrica ⁣

#WorldHippoDay #February15th #2022 #Vulnerable #IUCN #Hippo #RiverHorse #Hippopotamus #Africa #SaveourSpecies #Wildlife #Conservation #empowersafrica

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