Share

Hippo attacks bakkie: 16 tips for drivers to avoid animal attacks in SA

accreditation
<b>HIPPO ATTACKS:</b> A video captures the moment a bakkie driver felt the wrath of an angry hippopotamus. Read our list of safe driving tips for dealing with wildlife. <i>Image: YouTube</i>
<b>HIPPO ATTACKS:</b> A video captures the moment a bakkie driver felt the wrath of an angry hippopotamus. Read our list of safe driving tips for dealing with wildlife. <i>Image: YouTube</i>

Cape Town -  When in the wild we need to respect nature, wildlife and vegetation. It is not only our safety we should be concerned about but also that of the wildlife we are observing. Sometimes however, motorists and nature are bound to clash and the results can be terrifying on the road.

A video posted by CICA Crime Intel captures a driver's horror ordeal - an angry hippopotamus charging a Ford Ranger bakkie along a road.

In the video, it appears as though the hippo was trying to make its way to the river. As the bakkie comes to a halt alongside the animal, the hippo charges the bakkie, slamming into the front of the vehicle.

Click here for the full story

Watch the video below: Warning strong language

Here's an earlier incident of a elephant wrecking a bakkie:  


Have you witnessed an animal attacking a vehicle? Have you experienced an animal attacking your ride? Email us.


#ShockWildlifeTruths offers positive guidelines on app use in SANParks

Safe driving tips when dealing with wildlife on the road:

1. Smoking should be restricted to designated areas only, and not allowed in the veld.
2. The dry African bush ignites very easily, and a flash fire can kill animals. 
3. When driving at night, early morning, or at dusk, caution needs to be taken as this is when animal activity is high and the chance of animal/vehicle impact is the greatest. 
4. Try to slow down, especially after dark. Many animals become victims because people drive too fast to avoid hitting them.
5. Scan the road as you drive, watching the edges for wildlife. Young animals, in particular, do not recognize cars as a threat.
6. Wild animals are unpredictable and do not understand that the approaching lights on a vehicle means danger. They can be scared and become erratic and dart straight out in front of the motorist. 
7. The best way to avoid a collision with a wild animal is to anticipate that you will find one around the next corner so that you are able to react appropriately in the situation.
8. Remember that where there is one animal crossing, there may be more, young animals following their mother or male animals pursuing a mate.
9. At viewpoints, hides and camps, wildlife is more familiar with people and less intimidated by your presence. 
10. Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot, respect their fear of humans.
11. Never tease or corner wild animals - this may cause an unpredictable response and a potentially dangerous reaction. 
12. Respect your driver/guide's judgment about proximity to lions, cheetahs and leopards. Don't insist that he take the vehicle closer so you can get a better photograph. A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon a hard-earned meal. 
13. Never throw litter from your car! Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals, and birds.

Read: Guide to safety and driving on safari 

Arrive Alive editor, Johan Jonck, said: “With SA being such a prominent game viewing destination, we put quite a bit of research into compiling guidelines on how to drive when on safari and specifically in the nature reserve.

“It’s extremely important to remember that you as a game viewer are the outsider; you are in their (the animals) territory and you need to be respectful to nature and the animals in that domain.

WATCH: Elephant destroys vehicle with tourist in Maputo Game Reserve

“As a first guide we need to "listen local" and inquire from the guides and rangers where it is safe to drive and where we should not go .. they will have first hand knowledge of trouble spots or trouble animals..

There are very important tips, such as:

1. Observe animals silently and with a minimum of disturbance to their natural activities. Loud talking on game drives can frighten the animals.

2. Never attempt to attract an animal's attention. Don't imitate animal sounds, clap your hands, pound the vehicle or throw objects from the vehicle.

3. Do not be confrontational and hoot at vehicles... when a big animal such as an elephant approaches rather slowly move away... “The beauty of the wild is that it is still the wild - meaning it’s unpredictable. Be informed and be prepared.Understanding the rules of conduct and appropriate behaviour is an important part of safari safety. With awareness and cooperation, you will be ready for a safe and memorable journey!

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE