Hippo gazes upon her newborn… as crocodile is nearby

This is the moment when a newborn baby hippo very nearly became a crocodile’s afternoon snack, just minutes after it entered the world.

Mother hippo was observed during the final stages of labour by the Mara River, located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. 

But as she gave birth in the river, a hungry-looking crocodile was observing her closely – lying just feet away.  

All is well that ends well: Despite the overhanging risk of becoming crocodile snack, the newborn calf made its way to shore safely, and was able to meet its father

However, it seems the crocodile thought better of it, as the newborn calf was left to paddle ashore safely and greet its father, who had been napping by the river throughout the birth.

It is likely that the reason why the crocodile chose to stay well clear of the newborn and its parents, is the hippopotamus’ reputation as one of the most dangerous animals in the world.

It is a highly aggressive animal with an unpredictable temper, with females known to become particularly fearsome if anyone comes near their young.

The hippo is responsible for more human fatalities than any other animal in Africa, and is known to attack crocodiles. 

Finally here: The hippo mother was reportedly in labour for several hours before giving birth to the calf

Supportive partner: While mama hippo was in the water, powering through labour and giving birth, her partner was seen snoring away on the riverbank

Safe with mum: The mother  met up the newborn in the water, as the crocodile slid away up on the rocks 

Off you go: The tiny newborn hippo paddles to meet its father  after a safe delivery in the Mara river

Hello little one: The male hippo waddled down from his resting place to greet his newborn child

Meet cute: The baby calf and the new father are caught on camera as they meet for the first time