We know the lion as the king of the jungle, but this terrifying hippo attacking three lions will make you wonder! As these three lions were crossing a river in Botswana a hippo came charging at them in attack – you can even see the lions pure panic in the video!
The Decision
The three male lions were well aware of the hippo on the other side of the river in the Selinda Reserve, Botswana. But their need to cross the river was larger than their fear of the hippo – which was almost a fatal mistake!
Uncharted Territory
While swimming over the river, the lions kept on looking over to the hippo. Knowing very well how dangerous these animals can be, especially when they feel threatened! Which, unfortunately for the lions, it did.
Swift Attack
Feeling threatened by these large lions in its territory, the hippo made it his mission to protect his waters! All he wanted to do was get the lions out of his waters, not necessarily hurt or kill them. But the lions didn’t know that. All they saw was a massive hippo charging full speed at them in their vulnerable position.
Terrifying Encounter
As the hippo made his way to the three lions, one immediately turned around and got out on the side he came from. The other two were panicky hoping to reach the end, but the hippo caught up with them! With the sounds of water splashing and animals growling the hippo looked like he was ready to bite the lion closest to him.
Lucky Escape
While the second lion quickly got out of the water, the lion facing the hippo attack was doing his best to get away. And succeeded! But not without what must have been the biggest terror this lion has ever experienced! Just imagine, a massive hippo clawing with his enormous mouth at you in his home territory.
Beware Of The Hippo
Not before the hippo was certain the lions were completely out of his waters, did he back down. Feeling proud to have protected his territory and no one else was trespassing.
Lucky Lions
At the end of this terrifying attack of the hippo on three lions, none of the lions were severely injured. However, only two of the pride were able to cross the river, the rest were left with another problem. How would they get to the other side?
Hippo Size
Hippos are the largest mammals on earth! Weighing between 3,000 and 9,900 pounds and reaching sizes between 10.8 and 16.5 feet long. Making it understandable that they even put fear into the king of the jungle!
Lion Size
While male lions grow to about 10 feet in length and weigh between 330 and 550 pounds. Even though lions are successful predators, you can see that just by comparing size they would stand no chance against an angry hippo!
Hippos And Their Territory
Hippos are incredibly territorial animals. And as the video proves, they get super aggressive in protecting their space! The lions crossing posed a threat to the hippo who was unaware that these big cats just wanted to get to the other side.
Lions And Their Territory
Lions are also very territorial animals. But most importantly, they don’t step out of their territories without good reason. Yet, even these incredible predators will need to move through difficult terrains and face dangerous encounters if their circumstances require it.
Hippo Aggression
Hippos are not only the largest mammals but also the deadliest! Fighting is their only defense against threats, which is why they easily attack. While their weight, size, and incredibly sharp teeth contribute to their notorious deadly reputation.
Lion Aggression
Lions’ themselves are pretty aggressive animals! If bothered while eating, mating or uninvited guests enter their territory they will fiercely defend themselves through fighting and biting.
Hippo Attacks
Hippos are responsible for around 500 human deaths in Africa each year – 50 times more deaths than caused by shark attacks.
Lion Attacks
via depositphotos.com
It is estimated that lions are responsible for around 250 human deaths per year. Although lions attack mostly only when provoked, and kill less than hippos, they are still incredibly dangerous animals!
Where Can I See Hippos In The Wild?
If you would like to see hippos in the wild there are many protected reserves and national parks around Africa! Just always remember to keep a safe distance and stay clear of the water!
Where Can I See Lions In The Wild?
Lions roam around Africa in various habitats. And similar to hippos you can find them in the many African reserves and national parks.
How Old Do Hippos Get?
These massive semi-aquatic mammals can live for as long as 40 years! Even longer in captivity.
How Old Do Lions Get?
These majestic big cat predators live as long as 18 years in the wild, and up to 30 years in captivity.
Hippo Conservation
Although these animals are terrifying, it is saddening to know that they are facing population decline. Marking them as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, these animals are mostly confined to protected areas in sub-Saharan Africa.
Lion Conservation
African Lions are considered Vulnerable, and in some parts Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List. Their plummeting numbers are due to habitat loss, human-animal conflict, and the illegal wildlife trade.
Video of the Terrifying Hippo Attacking Three Male Lions
So, One Hippo Can Attack Three Lions
As we see in this intense video in the Selinda Reserve, Botswana hippos are incredibly powerful animals! And scary enough to give a lion the fright of his life!
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