Overview

The hippopotamus is Africa's most dangerous large mammal despite its placid appearance. Bulls weigh up to 1,500 kilograms and defend river territories with massive jaws that can snap a canoe in half. By day they lounge in water to stay cool; by night they walk kilometres to graze on grass.

Hippos secrete a red oily substance from their skin — once thought to be blood sweat — that acts as sunscreen and antibiotic. Their grunts, bellows, and explosive exhalations echo across African rivers at dusk.

Habitat

Rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa hold hippos. They need deep water for daytime submersion and nearby grassland for nocturnal feeding, and are found from the Okavango Delta to the Mara River and Zambia's Luangwa Valley.

Countries found

Interesting facts

01
Hippos secrete a red oily fluid that acts as sunblock and antibiotic.
02
They can hold their breath underwater for up to five minutes.
03
Hippos kill more people in Africa than any other large mammal.

Conservation status

VU — Vulnerable

Hippos are Vulnerable, with populations declining from habitat loss, drought, and illegal hunting for ivory canine teeth. Protected rivers in Kenya and Botswana remain strongholds.