Quick answer
The hippopotamus is a massive semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, weighing up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Despite a plant-based diet, hippos are highly territorial and are considered one of the most dangerous large animals to humans in Africa. Wild hippos live around 40 to 50 years.
Key takeaway
The hippopotamus is a massive semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, weighing up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Despite a plant-based diet, hippos are highly territorial and are considered one of the most dangerous large animals to humans in Africa. Wild hippos live around 40 to 50 years.
Overview
The hippopotamus is a massive semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, weighing up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Despite a plant-based diet, hippos are highly territorial and are considered one of the most dangerous large animals to humans in Africa. Wild hippos live around 40 to 50 years.
Biology
Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is classified as Mammal with conservation status Vulnerable. Typical weight 1,000–1,500 kg (2,200–3,300 lb); lifespan around 40–50 years in the wild.
Ecology
Diet: Herbivore. Habitat: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures.
People and this species
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild individuals are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Further reading
See the full Hippopotamus profile for FAQs, taxonomy, and related guides on this site.
Life in and out of water
Hippos spend up to 16 hours a day in water to keep their huge bodies cool and protected from the sun. They cannot truly swim; instead they walk or push off along the riverbed and can hold their breath for around five minutes. Their skin secretes a reddish substance, sometimes called blood sweat, that acts as a natural sunscreen and antibiotic.
Diet and territory
Hippos leave the water at night to graze on grass, eating around 35 kg (80 lb) in a session. Despite their herbivorous diet, bulls are fiercely territorial in water and will defend their stretch of river aggressively, using their enormous jaws and tusk-like canine teeth.
Why hippos are so dangerous
Hippos are responsible for an estimated several hundred human deaths in Africa each year, more than lions or crocodiles. They are unpredictable, surprisingly fast on land, and will capsize boats and attack anything they see as a threat to their territory or young.
Conservation
Hippos are listed as Vulnerable, with populations under pressure from habitat loss as rivers and wetlands are drained or diverted, and from illegal hunting for their meat and ivory canine teeth. Protected reserves and stable water sources are key to their future.
Research notes
Figures for hippopotamuss (Hippopotamus amphibius) come from field studies, museum records, and conservation assessments that do not always agree on exact averages. Prefer ranges over single-point claims, and check whether a source describes wild, captive, or mixed populations.
Practical takeaways
If you encounter hippopotamuss in the wild, prioritise distance and local guidance. If you care for related domestic or captive animals, match diet and housing to species needs rather than generic pet advice. Share accurate status information (Vulnerable) when discussing conservation.
Sources
FAQs
Hippopotamus: Key Facts & Natural History?
The hippopotamus is a massive semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, weighing up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Despite a plant-based diet, hippos are highly territorial and are considered one of the most dangerous large animals to humans in Africa. Wild hippos live around 40 to 50 years.
What is the scientific name of the hippopotamus?
Hippopotamus amphibius
What do hippopotamuss eat?
Herbivore
Where do hippopotamuss live?
Rivers, lakes, and wetlands
Are hippopotamuss endangered?
Listed here as Vulnerable. Check IUCN and national lists for the latest assessment.