Many people still believe that the title “swamp killer” belongs exclusively to crocodiles. However, scientists argue that crocodiles are actually second to another animal. Which animal is that?
Crocodiles – The Ultimate Predators
Crocodiles are large reptiles that thrive in aquatic environments, inhabiting a vast area across the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, North America, South America, and Oceania. They tend to live in rivers and lakes with slow-moving water. Crocodiles possess extremely powerful jaws and sharp teeth for tearing flesh, and they are remarkably agile over short distances, even outside of water. All large crocodiles also have sharp and strong claws.
Crocodiles, known for their gigantic size, are considered the “swamp killers.” (Photo: Pixabay)
The size of crocodiles varies significantly; some species can grow up to 5 to 6 meters long and weigh around 1,200 kg. Despite their seemingly sluggish appearance, crocodiles are top predators in their environments, with some species even daring to attack and kill lions, large hoofed animals, and even sharks.
The Most Aggressive Herbivores on Earth
According to National Geographic, the hippopotamus is a herbivorous mammal that resides in sub-Saharan Africa. They weigh between 1.5 to 4 tons and can reach lengths of up to 4 meters. This makes them one of the largest land mammals and the heaviest even-toed ungulates, despite being much shorter than giraffes.
However, the hippopotamus is the true successor to the crocodile’s title of ‘killer.’ (Photo: Pixabay)
The hippopotamus is one of the most aggressive animals on Earth and is often regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. Despite having two short legs and a bulky body, they can easily outrun humans. Hippos possess thick skin that is 5 cm thick, and although they are quite heavy, they can run at speeds of up to 30 km/h on land and 8 km/h in water. They are responsible for around 500 deaths each year in Africa.
They can weigh an average of up to 1.5 tons, and their teeth have crushing power equivalent to that of a large sledgehammer. It can be said that they are sworn enemies of crocodiles. Why is the hippopotamus considered a nemesis of the crocodile, and what secret weapon do they possess?
The Fierce Battle Between Hippopotamuses and Crocodiles
Veteran photographer Lean van Biljon captured a video at Kruger National Park (South Africa) showing that, despite being notorious predators, crocodiles still regard hippopotamuses with caution and do not dare to compete for food with them.
The hippopotamus nonchalantly steals prey right in front of the crocodile.
In the footage, a group of crocodiles ambushes and attacks a calf as it approaches the riverbank to drink water, quickly pulling the prey into the water. Immediately, many other crocodiles joined in, preparing to feast on the prey. However, the crocodiles unexpectedly encounter a new obstacle: the hippopotamuses. A struggle ensues for the prey, but victory quickly belongs to the hippopotamuses. Once again, the crocodiles find themselves “subdued” by these troublesome foes.
James Souchon, a tour guide in the Maputaland region of South Africa, described an encounter between hippopotamuses and Nile crocodiles: “For hours, I witnessed hippos and crocodiles lying just a few meters apart. There were no signs of them being wary of each other; they seemed almost indifferent to each other’s presence.”
Both crocodiles and hippopotamuses have terrifying biting forces. (Photo: Pixabay)
According to Souchon, crocodiles know their limits and do not dare to act recklessly towards such an aggressive creature as the hippopotamus. Crocodiles will only eat hippos if the opponent is already dead. Statistically, a hippopotamus’s jaw can crush one or two crocodiles that are about 3 meters long.
An adult Nile crocodile can reach lengths of 6 to 7 meters, with a bite force of up to 2,500 PSI (175.7 kg/cm2). This is not the highest level; a freshwater crocodile measuring about 7 meters and weighing 2 tons can exert bite strength of up to 3,700 PSI (260 kg/cm2).
With thick skin, the hippopotamus can easily turn the tables even when attacked by a crocodile. (Photo: Pixabay)
Let’s analyze the bite force of an adult hippopotamus. Their bite force is approximately 2,000 PSI (140.6 kg/cm2). This is a significant force, but it does not compare to that of a fully grown crocodile. However, hippos possess not only a strong bite. They also have a thick layer of skin measuring up to 5 cm. Additionally, their mouths can open over 100 degrees. There have been records of a hippopotamus killing an adult antelope with just one bite. There are also accounts of a crocodile attempting to ambush a hippopotamus but ended up getting bitten in half and eaten instead.
Moreover, hippopotamuses are particularly aggressive when their territory is invaded. Any animal that enters the water can be seen as an intruder and become their target, whether it is a carnivore or herbivore. Clearly, it is very difficult for crocodiles to penetrate the hippopotamus’s thick skin. In such situations, the hippopotamus will quickly retaliate and kill the crocodile.
