Hippopotamus is a large animal that lives in the wild.
Let’s find out more about the hippopotamus!
- The hippopotamus is a large semiaquatic animal.
- It is mostly herbivorous, which means that it doesn’t eat meat.
- Hippopotamus is a mammal.
- The hippopotamus is the third-largest type of land mammal.
- It is native to sub-Saharan Africa.
- It is one of only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae.
- The name comes from an ancient Greek word that stands for “river horse”.
- The hippopotamus inhabits rivers, lakes and mangrove swamps.
- During the day, they remain cool by staying in the water or mud.
- Reproduction and childbirth both occur in water.
- Grazing is a solitary activity.
- In just one night, hippopotamuses can guzzle down up to 35kg.
- Until 1909, naturalists grouped hippos with pigs.
- This happened because of their molar patterns.
- Hippopotamuses have greyish to muddy-brown skin.
- Their skin fades to a pale pink color underneath.
- They sweat an oily red liquid which helps protect their skin from drying out.
- This liquid acts as a sunblock, too.
- They can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater.
- They live in groups of around ten to 20 individuals.
- This group is usually led by a male hippopotamus.
- Female hippos are called cows, but they are not actual cows.
- They give birth every two years.
- They usually give birth to a single calf.
- Hippopotamuses’ predators are the crocodiles, lions, and hyenas.
- In the wild hippos live for around 40 years.
- In captivity, they tend to live longer and may reach up to 50 years old.
- The hippo is considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and it is highly aggressive.
- They have really sharp teeth.
- The hippo’s closest living relatives are whales and porpoises.
