Not the best of wood creatures, but I do think this one has a certain cheekiness in its wide grin, and smiling eye. It also looks like a drop of gloop within its mouth. I approached with caution as I didn't want to be slobbered on (which is something wood hippos will do to the unwary)
Great find! Was walking in the woods the other day and spotted a few. I don't think I would have noticed them if it weren't for your series of characters I have viewed. My eyes have been opened to the world of wood creatures.