This extraordinary wildlife footage showcases a cheeky baby elephant daring to confront a massive hippo. The young (and too-confident) elephant is seen approaching a massive hippo submerged in water.
We can’t help but fear for the baby elephant’s life as the hippo opens its mouth wide, but thankfully, the hippo decides to back off.
Elephant Vs. Hippo: Size
Adult elephants, particularly African bush elephants, can reach lengths of up to 24 feet and weigh as much as 14,000 pounds. In contrast, hippos, despite being one of the largest land mammals, are much smaller, with a length of about 14 feet and a weight of up to 4,000 pounds.
However, a baby elephant, typically weighing around 300 pounds and standing about 3 feet tall, is no match for a hippo.
Elephant vs. Hippo: Strength
In terms of strength, both elephants and hippos are formidable. Elephants are renowned for their immense strength, capable of uprooting trees. Hippos, on the other hand, have powerful jaws with a bite force that can be lethal.
How Dangerous Are Hippos?
Despite their often docile appearance, hippos are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. They are highly territorial and aggressive, especially when disturbed or threatened.
Hippos have been known to attack boats and humans with little provocation, making any encounter with them potentially perilous.
Are Baby Elephants Intelligent?
Baby elephants are not just adorable; they are also highly intelligent. Elephants have an extremely high level of self-awareness, display empathy, and can even use tools.
That being said, this tiny baby elephant who takes on a hippo is still learning – its naive curiosity could’ve easily cost it its life.
Can Hippos Breathe Underwater?
Hippos spend a considerable amount of time in water, but they cannot breathe underwater. They have developed an adaptation to close their nostrils and hold their breath for up to five minutes while submerged.
Territorial Behaviors on the Savannah
Territorial behavior is a significant aspect of wildlife interactions. Animals, including hippos and elephants, have specific territories which they defend vigorously.
This territorial instinct can often lead to confrontations, particularly when an individual feels their space is being invaded, as possibly seen in the hippo’s initial reaction.
Baby Elephant Takes on Hippo: Closing Thoughts
This wildlife footage reminds us that babies of all species are sometimes too curious for their own good, but by a miracle, this baby escaped unscathed. But the question remains – has this baby elephant learned its lesson?
Thank you for reading this article about the baby elephant that takes on a hippo! Keep exploring life on the savannah here:
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- Buffaloes Rescue Baby Elephant from Lions
- Angry Papa Elephant Tosses Around Baby Elephant But Luckily Mama Intervenes
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