Permits to relocate two hippos, a mother and her calf could take two months to approve.

The two hippos have taken up residence on a farm in Hartebeestfontein along the R25, near Kempton Park.

The animals were first spotted in April this year and have since made one of the farm’s ponds their temporary home.

“While the dense vegetation following recent rains has kept the hippos out of sight, clear footprints confirm their continued presence.

“Experts believe the pair migrated through the nearby wetland and river system before settling in the pond,” said Wanda Annandale, ERWAT communications manager.

Also read: Hippo Alert: Mother and calf spotted near ERWAT plant

She added that given the territorial and potentially aggressive nature of hippos, especially mothers protecting their young, ERWAT’s Environmental Division took swift action.

“They contacted the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD), whose Nature and Conservation Division visited the site and provided ERWAT with the required documentation to apply for capture and relocation permits,” said Annandale.

“Securing these permits is a complex process and is expected to take up to two months.

“ERWAT is working closely with a registered wildlife services provider experienced in the safe and humane capture and relocation of large wild animals such as hippos.”

In the meantime, ERWAT urges local residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid the area, particularly after dark when hippos are most active and pose a greater risk.