Hippos, often seen as fearsome creatures of the African river systems, have a fascinating and lesser-known side to their lives. In the recent BBC Earth special, “The ‘Beauty’ Regime of Hippos,” we dive into the intriguing world of these large mammals and their unique self-care rituals.

In the Lakins River, hippos are not just social but also territorial, making them a challenging subject for close observation. The BBC’s “spy hippo,” a cleverly disguised camera, captures rare and intimate moments of these animals. As the spy hippo navigates the river, it must avoid sudden movements to avoid angering these powerful creatures.

The focus of the footage reveals an extraordinary underwater scene: fish, specifically barbels, shadow the hippos and engage in a kind of underwater clinic. These barbs not only feed on parasites and dead skin but also perform some dental hygiene, providing hippos with much-needed relief from their numerous cuts and infections.

This symbiotic relationship showcases the incredible ways hippos maintain their health and offers a mesmerizing glimpse into their daily lives. From fierce territorial displays to soothing underwater spa treatments, hippos’ beauty regimen is as captivating as it is essential.