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Wildlife Facts

Hippos protect their hairless skin from the sun.  They actually sweat a sunscreen similar to commercial products used by humans.  The colorless, viscous liquid, which also acts as an anti biotic, gradually turns red and then brown creating a plastic-like structure to protect the animal as it enjoys day long baths and helps heal wounds inflicted by other hippos during fights for territory.  Scientists have carried out tests on the substance and found that it turns extremely acidic, working  as a strong antiseptic to help heal open wounds,  not only that it absorbs light, particularly ultra violet rays.  There is one drawback though, apparently it really smells very unpleasant! 

A rhinoceros beetle can support up to 850 times its own weight on its back. That would be the equivalent of a man carrying 76 family-sized cars around on his back.

The Sand Grouse soak their absorbent belly feathers in water, then fly back to their chicks - sometimes up to 60km away - who carefully strip the water from the individual feathers.

The call of a leopard, given both whilst inhaling and exhaling, sounds a lot like someone sawing wood.

Although looking rather slow-motioned, the Giraffe can actually reach speeds of between 30 - 35 miles. 

Wild Dog are one of the most successful hunters in Southern Africa, killing 85 per cent of all prey pursued.