Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus amphibius
Behavior and diet
The hippopotamus, or hippo, derives its name from ancient Greek for “river horse”. Hippos are primarily herbivores, although they have been known to nibble at animal carcasses. They spend an enormous amount of time in the water, around 16 hours, where they socialize and keep cool. The hippo does not graze when in water. It exits the water at dusk and can journey several kilometers to find nutrient grasses and herbs on which to feed. It will feed all night and make its way back to the water at dawn. Hippo trails are often well-worn from repeated use, and humans that are unfortunate to be in a hippo’s path as it’s returning to the water may not live to speak of it. When hippos are basking in the hot African sun, they may secrete an oily red substance which is often mistaken for blood. The liquid is actually a skin moistener and sunblock that prevents their skin from drying out. The gestation period for the hippo is eight months and they normally bear one young every two years.
Hippopotamus photos
Photo taken at Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda by Ganyana Safaris Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
04 Mar 2020
Hippo Pool lounge chairs for your relaxation!
Photo taken at Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya by Sunworld Safaris Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
05 May 2014
Clients at Hippo pool Lake Manyara
Photo taken at Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania by Karibu Africa Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
21 Oct 2014
hippo next to Chobe River
Photo taken at Chobe National Park, Botswana by Thorn Bush Safaris Chobe National Park, Botswana
17 Nov 2014
Photo taken at Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania by Experience Zanzibar Tours & Safaris Ltd Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
21 Nov 2019
Snack time
Photo taken at Chobe National Park, Botswana by Indigo Safaris Chobe National Park, Botswana
30 Apr 2017
Found in these countries:
Botswana
DR Congo
Gabon
Kenya
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibia
Rwanda
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
International hippopotamus day is celebrated on 15 February
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