Hippopotamus

The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is a large, herbivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It belongs to the family Hippopotamidae and is one of the heaviest land mammals. Hippos are semi-aquatic, spending much of the day submerged in rivers or lakes to stay cool and keep their skin moist. They come ashore at dusk to graze on grasses. Adults typically measure 3.0–4.0 meters in length, stand about 1.5 meters at the shoulder, and weigh 1,500–4,000 kilograms. Their bodies are barrel-shaped with short legs, a wide mouth, and eyes and nostrils positioned near the top of the head. The skin secretes a natural, orange-like substance that acts as sunscreen and has antimicrobial properties.

Socially, hippos live in groups called pods or herds, usually led by a territorial male. Females and their calves form the core of the group. In water, males defend territories; on land, encounters can be aggressive. They are primarily nocturnal grazers, feeding mainly on grasses. They can hold their breath for several minutes underwater, and calves are born underwater after a gestation of about eight months, weighing roughly 40–50 kilograms. Hippos communicate with grunts, wheezes, and other vocalizations and are capable of surprising bursts of speed on land.

Conservation status: the species is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Populations have declined in many areas due to habitat loss, poaching for meat and for tusks, and conflicts with humans. Protection in protected areas and efforts to manage water resources and reduce poaching are important for the species’ persistence.