An Encounter at the Waterhole

Every drive out here carries an element of the unpredictable, the potential for awe-inspiring moments and encounters that can leave long-lasting impressions. Our adventure this day was no exception. On a warm, sunny afternoon, we found ourselves approaching a serene waterhole, a known gathering spot for wildlife, especially as we enter into the deep winter months. Little did we know, we were about to witness a display of nature’s raw power.

This unique dental malformation making this hippo bull easily identifiable. 

As our Landrover neared the water’s edge, we spotted a massive bull hippo lounging in the shallows. These creatures, often appearing lethargic and docile, are known to transform into formidable forces when threatened.

The bow-wave forming.

When we come across a large hippo bull alone in a waterhole, he has very likely been overthrown or driven out of a large waterhole with a pod of females. These males tend to be flamboyant with their displays, being solitary now they feel somewhat more vulnerable and are very quick to demonstrate their ferocity. Thrashing their heads through the water, yawning, displaying their enormous canines, all in an attempt to ward off any would-be predators or threats. However, from the sanctuary of the water, these hippos have very little to actually worry about and often make fantastic subjects for photography.

The beginning of a head thrash, his head breaks through the water.

He then proceed to bare his colossal teeth, opening his mouth wide in a menacing display of razor-sharp tusk lined strength. Offering us an incredible view of his powerful jaws and the ferocity he possessed. His aggressive stance was a terrifyingly beautiful reminder of the dangers these giants harbour within them.

A magnificent display of raw power.

We grabbed a couple more snaps before letting the old boy be, his intention clear, to just be left alone. This particular male had likely recently lost his place as head of a breeding pod of females and had sought sanctuary in this small waterhole, a safe place to lick his wounds, mend his pride and be left to his own devices. Perhaps, strength regained, he would one day challenge again for mating rights to another pod.

The Grim Discovery

But it was not to be; a week later, our journey took an unexpected and somber turn. We received reports of lions feasting on a hippo carcass and decided to follow up. Arriving at the scene, we were met with a grim sight: the remains of a bull hippo, unmistakably the same one we had encountered at the waterhole. His distinctive malformed tooth confirmed his identity.

The old Mhangeni Female showing her years. She had lost much of her condition due to her very well worn teeth.

Notice how the lower tusks would normally occlude and self sharpen against the top canines. The deformed tooth would put this bull at a major disadvantage in a fight against another.

The lions had gorged themselves over the last few days, and all that remained was his skull and the lower jaw, still bearing the unique dental deformity.

Several of her and her daughters’ cubs, fat and full after feasting on a hippo for several days.

Unraveling the Mystery

The discovery left us pondering the fate of this once-mighty creature. What could have led to his demise? Several theories surfaced as we examined the scene and discussed possibilities with our guides.

Theory 1: The Lions’ Hunt

One plausible scenario is that the hippo fell victim to a lion attack while grazing at night. Hippos often leave the safety of the water to feed on grasses under the cover of darkness. In this vulnerable state, he might have been ambushed by a pride of lions. Despite his strength and ferocity, the coordinated attack of several lions could have overwhelmed him, leading to his eventual death. It would take a very coordinated attack to take down this monster without any major injuries and if this is how the old bull died then all credit must be given to the Munghen Pride for taking down this giant!

Theory 2: A Territorial Battle

Another possibility is that the hippo was engaged in a territorial battle with another bull. Male hippos are known to be highly territorial and can become extremely aggressive when defending their domain. If he had encountered a rival, the confrontation could have resulted in severe injuries. Unable to return to the safety of the waterhole, he might have succumbed to his wounds, making him an easy target for the lions. I personally find this theory unlikely due to the proximity of the kill to the original small waterhole; I don’t feel that another large bull would be near that area, it not being near prime hippo-bull territory. It is definitely not impossible though.

Theory 3: An Unknown Factor

Of course, nature is full of uncertainties, and there could be other, less obvious explanations. Disease, dehydration, or even a combination of factors might have contributed to the hippo’s downfall. Without more evidence, it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact cause, leaving an air of mystery around the final moments of this majestic creature.

Pulling out of the charge!

The Circle of Life

Our encounter with the bull hippo at the waterhole and the subsequent discovery of his remains served as a powerful reminder of the cycle of life in the wild. It highlighted the harsh realities animals face daily, the constant struggle for survival, and the ever-present balance between life and death.

The memory of the hippo’s formidable display of power and the poignant end to his story will remain with us, a testament to the untamed beauty and unpredictability of the natural world. Safaris like these at Londolozi Game Reserve not only offer breathtaking experiences but often also provide profound insights into the intricate web of life that makes up these wild places.