Amazing Facts About Hippos

Hippos Are Huge Semi-Aquatic Mammals

Hippos are enormous semi-aquatic animals with a bulky, rounded body, short legs, a small tail, and a massive head. Their skin is usually grey or dark brown with a muddy appearance, while the underside of their body has a lighter pinkish colour.

Hippos Are Among the Largest Land Animals

Hippos rank as the second biggest land mammals in the world, with elephants taking the top position. Adult males can grow to around 3.5 metres in length and stand about 1.5 metres tall at the shoulder. They can weigh as much as 3,200 kilograms, which is roughly the weight of three small vehicles.

They Use Water to Stay Cool

Living in the hot African climate means hippos need ways to regulate their body temperature. They spend much of the day resting in rivers and lakes. Their eyes, nostrils, and ears are positioned on the top of their heads, allowing them to see, breathe, and hear while most of their body remains underwater.

Hippos also produce a special oily red secretion from their skin. This natural substance helps prevent their skin from drying out and provides protection from the sun.

Their Range Has Decreased Over Time

Hippos were once widespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa. However, their numbers have fallen because of habitat destruction and hunting. Today, most wild hippos survive in protected regions, especially in parts of East Africa.

Hippos Feed Mostly at Night

These giant mammals are mainly active after sunset, when they leave the water to search for food. Hippos are herbivores and mainly eat grass. Despite their slow appearance, they consume a large amount of vegetation and can eat up to 35 kilograms of grass during a single night.

They Are Excellent Swimmers

Although they have a heavy body, hippos are surprisingly skilled in the water. They can stay underwater for as long as five minutes. When they dive, their ears and nostrils automatically close to prevent water from entering.

Hippos Live in Social Groups

Hippos usually stay together in groups called herds. A typical group contains around 10 to 20 individuals and is controlled by one dominant adult male. The rest of the herd is made up of females, young calves, and a few younger males that are not yet breeding.

Male Hippos Defend Their Territory

Dominant males are highly protective of their herd and territory. When facing competitors, they display their large mouths and powerful curved teeth as a warning. They may also make deep grunting sounds and create strong splashes in the water to intimidate rivals.

Mothers Raise Their Calves Carefully

Female hippos, known as cows, usually give birth once every two years and normally have only one calf at a time. Shortly after birth, mothers and their babies often join other females and young hippos in groups for extra safety from predators such as crocodiles, lions, and hyenas.

Hippos Can Live for Decades

In their natural environment, hippos typically survive for about 40 years. Those living under human care often have longer lifespans and may reach around 50 years old.