Hippos Strolling in St Lucia: A Unique Sight in South Africa

Three hippos were spotted leisurely walking down a busy street in St Lucia, South Africa, captured on a TikTok by @lloydvonplaster. This regular nighttime ritual allows locals to coexist peacefully with wildlife, contributing to St Lucia’s appeal as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.

In St Lucia, South Africa, three hippos have been seen strolling nonchalantly along a busy street, creating a charming scene for residents. This occurrence was captured in a TikTok video by user @lloydvonplaster, which has received significant attention, amassing over 89,000 views. Many viewers have inquired whether such hippo sightings are common in the village.

According to @lloydvonplaster, the hippos regularly come to town each night to graze on grass, as the area serves as their home. When asked about safety concerns regarding humans interacting with the hippos, he advised that maintaining distance is crucial for safety.

Unlike in many places where the sight of large animals would be met with chaos, the residents of St Lucia calmly accommodate the hippos as they meander through the streets. This unique coexistence has highlighted St Lucia as a destination rich in wildlife, drawing attention to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The St Lucia Estuary within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 800 hippos and 1,200 crocodiles, allowing visitors to witness these animals in their natural habitat. Tourists can partake in boat tours to see hippos and crocodiles or enjoy a walk through the village to observe the wildlife.

For more delightful footage, a second video of the hippos is available on the same TikTok account, showcasing their playful antics while they search for food.

The casual presence of hippos in St Lucia, South Africa, highlights the unique harmony between humans and wildlife in the area, making it a noteworthy tourist destination. Visitors can engage with local wildlife either through boat tours or by simply strolling through the village, offering an extraordinary experience. This charming interaction illustrates the distinctive lifestyle of the residents of St Lucia, living alongside these magnificent creatures.

Original Source: www.travelweek.ca