Death of a Hippo

We witnessed over a four day period the death of another hippo from starvation. These are the sad consequences of the severe drought.

We first saw this hippo 4 days ago, alive but to weak to move and defenseless, the eyes were open and the ears were flicking, the oxpeckers were still picking off the parasites.

Day 1

 We went back the next morning to find the Hippo in the same position barely alive

Day 2 early morning

That same afternoon late we back to see that the Hippo had died. no predators or vultures were around.

Day 2 late afternoon

 The next day the vultures arrived and had gouged out the eyes and tried unsuccessfully to open the carcass up

Later that day a Jackal arrived and also tried to open the carcass

 We went back this afternoon (10 May) and to our surprise the carcass had still not been opened despite a Hyaena being present, the Vultures were still pulling and pulling to get it open, there was even Lappet Faced Vultures on the carcass who are known for opening carcasses. A pride of Lion had arrived and were lying about 1 Km from the carcass not showing any interest at all.

We will return tomorrow to see what transpires.