Hippo Description

The Common Hippo is one of the largest land animals. The common hippopotamus is known for its strength, power and fierceness.

Hippo Anatomy

Hippopotamuses appear to have an odd anatomy but actually they have short legs that offer them movement both on land and in the water. Thanks to both toes and webbing they can get around in both of these areas without any problems.

Hippos have nostrils on top of the head so that it is easier for them to reach the surface for air, but to do that, they don't have to expose the entire body to do so, avoiding sun and dangers.

Hippo Behavior

Usually we think that the chubby aspect of hippos makes them friendly, but a bit more of research shows us that hippos are one of the most aggressive animals in the world. Their weight powerful teeth have given them such a terrible reputation.

Hippo aggression is also shown in frequent fights between them. The males are more likely to fight due to the desire to be the leader, as it is the only one to mate. Females are also extremely aggressive when protecting their young.

Hippo Habitat and Distribution

The last natural habitat of Common Hippos in the wild is the East of Africa. Their habitat has been continuously reduced by humans. As the tropical areas are being taken away they find it harder to find enough food out there.

They spend a lot of hours looking for food, but they are even more aggressive when they cannot find enough food.

Hippo Diet and Feeding Habits

Hippos are herbivores and they consume up to 150 pounds of vegetation each day and such amount is harder to find each day.

It is extremely hard for the young Common Hippos to get adequate nutrition while struggling for food. When they are a few months old they do begin to eat some of the vegetation.

Hippo Reproduction

Hippopotamus babies take 8 months to born after the dominant male has mated with one of the females in the herd. The young are born in the water but come to the surface for air.

Baby Hippos are well cared for by their mothers and it is common for a young Hippo to stay with the mother for many years.

Common Hippo Predators

While Common Hippos are not usually threatened out there in any way by other animals, some animals take the risk to get a young hippo. Some of the common dangers for young hippos are lions and crocodiles.

Common Hippos are considered to be vulnerable in terms of extinction. There are some efforts in place to help them get a numbered wild population.

However, the primary goal though is to stop the further destruction of the natural habitat.