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Hippo mystery in Cyprus

Located near to Ayia Napa on the south-east coast of the island, the remains could date back as far as a quarter million years.

There are estimated to be 80 of the animals at the site but there could be hundreds more lying beneath a layer of fossils embedded in the ancient coral reef that over looks the coast line, the International Herald Tribune reports.

Scientists feel that the remains could give clues as to when humans first set foot on the island, and Ioannis Panatides, from the Cyprus Geological Survey Department, told the newspaper that the discovery could allow Cypriots to learn about themselves.

The findings could suggest that humans were on the island 2,500 years earlier than was first thought.

As for the hippos, they measured just 0.7 metres high and 1.2 metres long and foraged on the land.

Scientist belive the hippos may have had legs and feet that were adapted to land instead of water so they could stand on their legs and reach trees.

As more of Cyprus' history is revealed holiday makers find more reasons to visit the island which, in ancient myth, is said to be the birth-place of Aphrodite.

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Views and opinions in this article are solely of the author and do not necessarily represent those of James Villa Holidays(JVH). JVH provides no assurances regarding the accuracy of the information and cannot accept liability for complaints, loss or damage resulting from the article. It does not form part of the contract made when a holiday is booked with JVH and the information provided is not intended to be a rider or replacement to the booking conditions. Reference to the service or product of a third party, is not an endorsement or recommendation and JVH accepts no liability as a result of complaints, loss or damage arising from their use.