02/06/2026
Hippos are like carbon-based submersible amphibious vehicles!
Their eyes, nostrils and ears sit high on their heads, giving them access to a multi-sensory periscope that allows them to remain submerged but attentive to their surroundings for long periods of time.
Their eyes not only have a clear membrane, essentially swimming goggles protecting them from water, silt and debris, but also a reflective layer known as the 'tapetum lucidum', which boosts low light and is visible in infrared videography like this.
