Hippo Pool Party

Caught on camera by Martin Sanchez in the “Hungry Hippos!” shot during the 2018 Dronestagram competition, this aerial view shows just how social hippos can be. Here they are, tightly packed in Tanzania’s mud, which is more than just a cool bath—it’s a crucial part of their life, helping protect their sensitive skin from the sun and keeping their body temperature regulated.

Hippos spend up to 16 hours a day in water and despite their seemingly sluggish demeanor, they are known to be quite agile and can be surprisingly territorial. So, while they might look like they’re just hanging out, these hippos are strategically maintaining their cool.