A farmer in South Africa was reportedly mauled to death by his pet hippo which the man had previously referred to as “like a son to me.” Marius Els, 40, was found dead in a river with multiple bite injuries on Sunday.
According to SkyNews, Els, who lived in the Free State province adopted the hippo he named “Humphrey” when found as a calf. You Tube videos went viral of Els riding the 2,000 pound animal.
Els stated Humphrey enjoyed playing together, the animal would come when he was called and even allowed Els to brush its teeth. More than once, Els stated he trusted Humphrey and the animal would never hurt anyone. Often the two would swim together and Els would get on the hippo’s back.
“There’s a relationship between me and Humphrey and that’s what some people don’t understand,” Els reportedly stated. “They think you can only have a relationship with dogs, cats and domestic animals. But I have a relationship with the most dangerous animal in Africa.”
Check out one of the YouTube videos of Els and Humphrey. Make you your own mind if Humphrey looks happy here:
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
(Photo via screenshot YouTube, Bancroft Media)
Find JOY in the little things! Puppy paws, wet noses, wagging tails, snuggles and more. Choose your favorite color and style at this link.
More styles, and inspirational designs at our store – please click here to find them all! Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
In a world where you can be anything, be kind.
Own your own one-of-a-kind design! All sales help support the continuation of our site. Pick your favorite color and style at this link.
I love paws! Please pick your favorite color and style at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
The cutest friends you’ll ever see!
Is your tree safe?!
Karma is a b*tch. Choose kindness! Our unique design spreads an important message! Choose your favorite color and style at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
That face!!
Fight animal abuse! Donate Now
There is no us. There is no them. We are one! Purchase your one-of-a-kind mug at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
OBVIOUSLY, HUMPHREY WAS NOT HAPPY! IS HE SAFE IN THE WILD NOW?