Hippopotamus mother and calf, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

© Nature Picture Library/Alam

Happy Hippo Day!. World Hippo Day

All eyes are on hippos today! The world's third-largest land mammals after elephants and white rhinos, hippopotamuses are found in rivers and lakes throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Despite their size—they can weigh up to 4 tons—they are vulnerable to various threats, including habitat loss.

The peeping calf in today's image is still under the watchful eye of its mother and will continue to be so until nursing ends at about 8 months. These chubby mammals might seem cute, but their strong jaws, large teeth, and aggressive behavior make them one of the world's most dangerous wild animals. So, admire them from a safe distance—despite their short legs, they are also fast runners!