Common Hippopotamus — printable fact sheet

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Common Hippopotamus

Hippopotamus amphibius

The common hippopotamus is a large, mostly herbivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its massive barrel-shaped body, nearly hairless thick skin, short legs, and an enormous mouth with large tusks. Hippopotamuses spend much of their day submerged in …

Classification

Mammal

Family

Hippopotamidae

Habitat

Rivers, lakes, and swamps in sub-Saharan Africa

Diet

Herbivore

Conservation status

Vulnerable

Lifespan

40-50 years

Weight

1,400–4,500 kg

Scientific name

Hippopotamus amphibius

Did you know?

A hippopotamus can open its mouth up to 150 degrees, revealing tusks that can grow over 50 cm (20 inches) long.
Hippos secrete a natural reddish oily fluid sometimes called 'blood sweat' that acts as a sunscreen and antibiotic. Despite their aquatic lifestyle, hippos cannot actually swim or float; instead, they move by pushing off the riverbed. Hippos communicate underwater using unique vocalizations that can be heard both above and below the surface.

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