H ippos are so cool! The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius), often referred to as the hippo, is a large, mostly herbivorous mammal found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae, the other being the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis or Hexaprotodon liberiensis). The name “hippopotamus” comes from the ancient Greek for “river horse” (ἱπποπόταμος).

Hippos are recognizable by their large, barrel-shaped bodies, enormous mouths and teeth, nearly hairless skin, and short legs. Despite their bulky and heavy appearance, hippos can run up to 30 km/h (19 mph) over short distances. They can weigh between 1,400 kg (3,100 lb) for females and 3,200 kg (7,100 lb) for males, making them the third-largest land mammal by weight, after elephants and white rhinoceroses.

Hippos have a distinctive grayish-brown skin that is nearly hairless and extremely thick, making them well-suited for life in water. Their skin secretes a natural sunscreen substance, which is red-colored and commonly referred to as “blood sweat,” although it is neither blood nor sweat. This secretion protects their skin from drying out and has antibacterial properties.

Hippos are primarily found in rivers, lakes, and swamps across sub-Saharan Africa. They prefer habitats with slow-moving or stagnant water where they can submerge themselves during the day to keep cool and avoid the harsh African sun. Hippos are most active at night, when they leave the water to graze on grasses.

Hippos are social animals, typically living in groups called pods, bloats, or herds, which can consist of anywhere from 10 to 30 individuals. These groups are usually dominated by a single, territorial bull who controls a stretch of river and the females and young within it. While hippos spend much of their time in the water, they are not strong swimmers. Instead, they move by pushing off the bottom of the riverbed.

Despite their seemingly docile nature, hippos are among the most dangerous animals in Africa. They are highly territorial and can be extremely aggressive if they feel threatened. They have large, powerful jaws and sharp teeth that can inflict serious injury or death on potential threats, including humans.