At first glance, you may be convinced that you are staring at two extraterrestrial beings hiding underwater. The round, smooth shapes and eerie, almost featureless forms seem to merge with the water’s surface, suggesting that something out of this world is lurking beneath. However, what you’re actually observing isn’t aliens at all, but rather one of the river’s most iconic creatures – the hippopotamus.
The optical illusion is a fascinating example of how nature can sometimes appear as strange as anything imagined. The strange bulges and textured skin of the hippopotamus create the illusion of an alien, almost otherworldly form. Upon closer inspection, however, the truth becomes clear: these are not aliens, but a hippo, partially submerged in the water, resting in its natural habitat. This illusion is a perfect reminder that nature, with its remarkable diversity, can often play tricks on the mind.
The Hippo’s Mystique and the Optical Illusion…