Holidaymakers on safari in Kruger park are used to seeing a variety of beautiful animals, but it was slightly more unexpected when a hippo turned up near the coastal city of Durban recently.
Locals and tourists in the town of Ballito were stunned to see a hippo swimming in the surf.
The animal, which had strayed from its natural habitat of inland swamps in Richards Bay, even came onto the beach at Thompson's Bay before moving back into the water.
While it provided a fascinating sight for visitors, the fact that the hippo had come so far south caused concern among wildlife experts.
Lionel Schoor of conservation group KZN Wildlife said that the animal could soon run out of things to eat and could also pose a danger to humans. He also explained that tranquilising the hippo was not a viable option.
"This one would drown if we darted him in the water, and if we tried to dart him on the beach, he would run into the water for safety and again drown when the drug takes effect," he said.
"If the hippo moves any further south there is huge risk."
Mr Schoor said that the hippo's best hope is to retrace his steps and return north to find fresh water.
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