The iSimangaliso Wetland Park authority has launched an investigation into an incident whereby a hippo was struck by a vehicle within the bounds of the park on Wednesday, Zululand Observer reports.

The incident occurred in the Eastern Shores section of the park, which runs from Bhangazi Gate in St Lucia to Cape Vidal, at about 06:30 on New Year’s Day.

“The hippo sustained severe injuries and upon assessment by an experienced conservation manager the decision was taken to put it down,” said Bheki Manzini, iSimangaliso spokesperson.

“An investigation will be conducted to establish a possible cause of the accident. iSimangaliso has clear signage of vehicle speed restrictions within the park.”