This dispersing male will be relocated to another nature reserve.
Grassy Park residents were met with an unusual scene in the early hours of Saturday morning after a hippopotamus was found roaming Italian Road.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA's Wildlife Department responded immediately to the scene and found that the wild animal broke down part of the fence at the Rondevlei Nature Reserve.
The SPCA's Wildlife Inspector Trevor Rodney says the hippo was herded back into the reserve in Perth Road using their vehicles and temporarily secured the fence until repairs can be officially undertaken.
Hippos are highly territorial and can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if their territory is encroached upon.
They are also very protective of their young, which can trigger aggressive behaviour if they perceive any potential threats.
In addition, hippos have poor eyesight and may attack simply out of confusion or in response to sudden movements.
Hippos are responsible for more human fatalities in Africa than any other large animal. Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution if they spot one.
