A Cranky River Horse

Hippos can weigh over 4,000 pounds, yet they are also great swimmer. In fact, they are probably the closing living land mammal relative to the whale. So much so, that their name means "river horse". Yes, hippos are amazing creatures...they are also REALLY cranky!

by Dave McBride (@RadioHarambe)

Quiet and Cranky is a Bad Combo

Despite being related to docile whales, the hippopotamus is one of Africa's most dangerous animals for humans. By the time they reach adulthood, the average hippo is at the top of the local food chain, and have even been known to aggressively displace and even kill rather scary looking crocodiles.

So why is this mostly vegetarian animal so dangerous? Well, besides its impressive size, surprising speed and a famously cranky temper, the secret can be found in this photo. Even though a hippo can be over 7,000 pounds, your boat could float right over a hippo having a bad day and you wouldn't know it until it's too late.

by Dave McBride (@RadioHarambe)

Jungle Jim's Animal Portraits: A Hippo Out of Water

Kilimanjaro Safaris is the greatest attraction in Disney World!  Okay, maybe that's just our opinion, but we love it so much not just because of the amazing animals and the second-to-none design but because every ride is truly different.  If you are a Safari veteran, you will know there are a handful of animals you hope to get real good glimpse of because they are often hiding in the woods or behind a rock.  In the case of the hippos, they are usually almost entirely submerged, making a good photo next to impossible.

But occasionally, especially if you go on Safari when it's cool or raining, you will find a hippo walking the water's edge chomping on some grass.  And that is exactly the opportunity Jungle Jim got when he posted this gorgeous close-up.

photo by Jungle Jim

Open Up and Say "Ahhhh"!

Jungle Jim sent us this lovely photo of a hippopotamus from his trip along the Wild Africa Trek.  This hippo actually did open up and say "ahhhhh".

Now I wasn't with Jungle Jim when he did the Trek, but I have heard stories.  Apparently he had to be told several times he was holding up the group.  But we can't complain because he was busy taking wonderful photos like this one.

A Hippo In The Sun

Usually you only get to see these guys underwater, as they keep themselves cool in the Florida heat.  But head to Kilimanjaro Safaris in the morning or just near sunset and you may find these impressive hippos prowling the water's edge.

photo by Jungle Jim