Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius)

Height: 30 to 170 cm.
Weight: 385 to 826 pounds
Length: 5 to 6 feet
Life Span: 40 to 50 years
Gestation: 7 months
Litter size: 1

Physical Characteristics

The hippopotamus has a hairless body except for bristles on the lip and tail. It is a heavy-bodied, short-legged, short-tailed animal. The hippo's eyes, ears and nostrils are designed so that they are above the water line when the body is submerged, enabling it to breathe, see and hear while concealed. The hippo's nostrils close when the animal is totally submerged. It has body pores that secrete a clear mucus that makes the hippo slick to the touch and also helps while the animal is in the water. The hippo's mouth is huge and contains long, pointed incisor and canine teeth. Lower canine teeth modified as tusks and are valued as ivory.

Habitat, Daily Life and Feeding

Hippopotamuos live in wet forest, streams and swamps; it needs water to survive. The Hippo is a herbivore. It eats fallen fruit and aquatic shoots and leaves. Hippo's are found in numerous herds mostly composed of female and calves. They sleep and rest during the day by or in the water. They are most active during the night even if they are just looking for food. The hippo can eat up 60kg of grass that it rips off with its lips. The Hippo does not have any kind of natural life.

Reproduction

After a period of 7 months a baby calf is born. At birth the calf will way 6-8 pounds. Usually a single young are born. Hippos live for 40-50 years.

Status

Like the elephant, the hippo has been hunted for their ivory. The hippo is listed as threatened.

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