A recent incident captured on video and shared by The Digital Ark revealed the dangers presented by hippopotamuses, as one emerged from a lake and overturned a boat, throwing a group of people into the water. This event occurred at Kruger National Park in northeast South Africa, where conservationists were attempting to capture the hippopotamus and her calf, which had escaped from a nearby farm following extreme flooding in the area. The shocking video was shared on February 17, sparking discussions about the inherent risks associated with these animals.

The Digital Ark, an organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of wildlife, emphasized the significance of this incident by sharing statistics about hippopotamus-related fatalities in Africa, noting that they are responsible for more human deaths than many large animals. They reminded viewers of the seriousness of this encounter, stating, "And today it reminded us why." Zander Pinar, a member of the organization, provided further insight into the situation, detailing ongoing efforts to safely capture the hippopotamus and her calf with specialized equipment.

The incident underlines the importance of understanding wildlife behavior and the challenges faced by conservationists in managing animal populations near human habitats. It brings to light the complex relationship between humans and wildlife, particularly in regions where rising water levels and habitat destruction can force animals into contact with people. As flooding becomes more frequent due to climate change, such encounters may become more common, necessitating better strategies for coexistence and wildlife conservation efforts.