Cape Town is home to a remarkable pod of Common Hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibius) residing in the Rondevlei section of the False Bay Nature Reserve since 1981.
This unique family group of hippos has been an integral part of the wetland ecology, cared for by the City’s Biodiversity Management team for over four decades.
The history of these hippos intertwines with local conservation efforts and the restoration of natural habitats. Originally lost to Cape Town due to hunting over 300 years ago, hippos were reintroduced in 1981 as part of a visionary conservation initiative.
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Two males were reintroduced initially, followed by two females in 1983, marking the beginning of a journey to restore a piece of Cape Town’s natural heritage.
These hippos have significantly influenced the False Bay Nature Reserve’s ecosystem, particularly in controlling invasive species like the Seashore Paspalum that threatened wetland habitats in Rondevlei.
As part of natural hippo pod dynamics, young male hippos disperse to establish their own territories. The original dominant male at Rondevlei necessitates the relocation of some older male offspring to protect them from territorial conflicts.
Recently, a young male hippo made headlines after escaping to avoid conflict with the dominant male. The City’s Biodiversity Management Branch, Quemic security rangers and SAPS safely herded him back into the reserve. Plans are underway to relocate him to a new home.
Hippos are endemic to Africa and play a crucial role in shaping ecosystems. Despite urban constraints, Cape Town’s hippos provide a glimpse into the region’s natural heritage. They benefit numerous species through ecosystem changes and nutrient distribution.
The City remains dedicated to protecting this special hippo population amid threats like habitat loss, poaching and human-wildlife conflict.
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Picture: City of Cape Town
