Hippopotamuses

The hippopotamus, often perceived as docile, is actually one of Africa's most dangerous animals. These massive semi-aquatic mammals kill an estimated 500 people annually, more than lions or crocodiles. Despite their bulky appearance, hippos can sprint at 30 km/h on land and are highly aggressive when threatened. Their powerful jaws can crush boats or predators with 2,000 pounds of bite force. Territorial by nature, they attack without warning, charging at perceived intruders in water or on land. Responsible for more human deaths than any other large African mammal, hippos demonstrate that size and speed make an unexpectedly lethal combination.