I live in an area of Kinshasa that is surrounded by the Congo River on three sides. There were rumors of hippos in the area, but considering the rapid increase river traffic and industrialization in the area, few believed it possible. As I was out walking one morning--only a few blocks from my house--I was surprised to see this hippo calmly eating grass. There was only a slight bank of new soil pushed up along the side of the dirt street, and 50 feet of grass between us. I very slowly lifted my camera and began shooting, always aware of her movements. The hippo continued eating grass as it slowly walked back toward deep water. This was one of many sightings. We have identified 3 different hippos, making the wildlife conservation people aware of their presence in the city. Though they had also heard the rumors, my photos are the first proof of existence in this area of Kinshasa.