The Wildebeest's guide to South Africa

Hippopotamus

Afrikaans name: Seekoei

Hippo spend a lot of time in the water

Hippo

Photo © Steven Herbert

Hippopotamus amphibius

Interesting facts about Hippos

Apparently their name originates from the Greek word for 'river horse' (I don't see the resemblance between a horse and a hippo)

Hippos are most often seen in or very near water during the day. At night they come out the water to graze and will travel quite long distances to find food.

Hippos occupy permanent water sources such as dams, rivers and larger water holes.

Dominant bulls form territories where they keep a small to large group of females. They will defend their territory aggressively and may even challenge boats entering their space.

Hippo are well-known as being aggressive, particularly when they are out of the water. It is not a good idea to get between a Hippo and the water!

Male Hippos can weigh around 2,000 kg with the average being 1,500 kg. Females weigh around 1,300 kg.

Hippo having a lazy day by the dam

Photo © Steven Herbert

Young hippos play-fighting

Photo © Steven Herbert

Above and below - Adult male Hippos have enormous power and are not scared to use it on rival males, boats, people and other objects that infringe on their territories. Here young hippos indulge in play-fighting which they will put to more serious use later in life.

Young hippos play-fighting at Sunset Dam near Lower Sabie in Kruger National Park

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading


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List of South African Mammals

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