SA surfers travelling to Mozam in search of good waves is nothing out of the ordinary. In fact, when the waves are firing, it’s business as usual for some. However, a hippopotamus crossing the Kosi Bay border, before traversing the web of roads which follow, all to get a crack at Ponta’s bay…now that’s slightly less common.
Hippopotamus amphibius, getting its money’s worth with no-one else out.
Anyone who’s gone to Ponta Do Oura for the first time knows that it’s no joke trying to get your vehicle from the border to the beach. The network of thick, sandy roads looks more like a blueprint for a two-dimensional anthill. Fortunately for this aquatic 4×4, all roads lead to Ponta. Local Surf’s Up owner and instructor,’Spiggles,’ was on the beach this morning when he spotted the mammal cooling off in front of his shop.
“This is not uncommon in Maputoland but is unusual for Ponta as it’s more built up. The hippo is most probably from Kosi Bay and hopefully tonight it’ll go back. It’s chilling in the bay for the day I reckon. We live in a beautiful place, and things like this just go to show why we need to preserve this area for future generations. Needless to say, backline was empty. Except I did see this one guy get a bomb!” – Spigs.
There must be something in the water because crocs and hippos are just some of the strange animals that have previously found their way into Ponta’s bay. Whatever the case may be, it’s just another unique feature adding to the place’s beauty and natural diversity.
