New Study Reveals Hippos Can Become Airborne While Running

Researchers discover that hippos can lift all four feet off the ground for brief periods, challenging previous assumptions about their locomotion.

Hippos can become airborne for up to 0.3 seconds while trotting, according to the Royal Veterinary College study.
The research involved video analysis of hippos at Flamingo Land Resort and additional footage from online sources.
This finding places hippos' athletic abilities between those of elephants and rhinoceroses.
The study aims to improve understanding of large land animal movement and could aid in veterinary care.
Researchers highlight the challenges of studying hippos due to their dangerous nature and preference for water.