Malawi investigates deaths of at least 22 hippos at national park – reports

At least 22 hippos have died in Malawi in two months, raising fears that the wild animals could become extinct in the southern African country, according to a report. Malawi24 quoted wildlife authorities as saying that they noticed carcasses of  hippos floating on Shire River in Liwonde early last month.
The Director of Parks and Wildlife Brighton Kumchedwa expressed shock at the massive deaths, adding that it was the first time to have 22 hippos dead in the country in a very short period.
A report by Xinhuanet.com said that the Department of Parks and Wildlife in Malawi was investigating the cause of the deaths.
"We are working with the vet department officials and the African Parks who are managing the National Park to establish the cause as this is the first time for the country to witness this," Director of the Department of Parks and Wildlife, Brighton Kumchedwa was quoted as saying.