Hippopotamus

The hippopotamus, also called the common, Nile or river hippopotamus, is a large semiaquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of two living species in the family Hippopotamidae. Hippos live in rivers, lakes and mangrove swamps, spending days in water or mud and grazing on grasses at dusk. They are threatened by habitat loss and poaching for meat and canine-tooth ivory.

Scientific name

Hippopotamus amphibius

Habitat

Rivers, lakes, and mangrove swamps

Conservation threats

Habitat loss and poaching for meat and ivory