hippopotamus
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classification
Mammals, Cetancodonta, Hippoidea, Family Hippopotamidae, Genus Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius for Common Hippopotamus)
habitat
Hippopotamuses primarily inhabit rivers, lakes, and mangrove swamps in sub-Saharan Africa. They prefer areas with deep water to submerge and areas of grassy banks for grazing.
body length
Adult hippopotamuses can measure about 10 to 16.5 feet (3 to 5 meters) in length, with males typically being larger than females.
body weight
Adult hippopotamuses typically weigh between 3,000 to 4,000 pounds (1,360 to 1,814 kg), with males usually being heavier than females.
lifespan
In the wild, hippopotamuses can live up to 40 years, while in captivity, they may live longer, reaching up to 50 years.
food habit
Hippopotamuses are herbivorous and primarily graze on grass, consuming around 80 to 100 pounds (36 to 45 kg) of grass each night. They are nighttime feeders, leaving the water to graze on land.
habit
Hippopotamuses are social animals, often seen in groups called pods, which can range from 10 to 30 individuals. They are semi-aquatic, spending most of their day in water to keep cool and protect their skin from sunburn.
natural enemy
Adult hippopotamuses have few natural enemies, but young hippos are vulnerable to crocodiles, lions, and hyenas. Humans are also a significant threat due to hunting and habitat destruction.
bits of knowledge
Hippopotamuses are known for their large size and aggressive nature. They can run surprisingly fast on land, reaching speeds of up to 19 miles per hour (30 km/h) over short distances. Despite their bulk, they are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for up to five minutes.