African Wildlife - The Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus Amphibius)
The Hippopotamus is the largest non-ruminating, even-toed hoofed
animal reaching a height of 1,5 meters and weighing up to 1 500
kg with a life expectancy of 40 to 50 years. They formerly occupied
lakes and rivers throughout sub-saharan Africa but are now restricted
to the eastern and south-eastern parts of Africa from the upper
course of the Nile river in Sudan to South Africa. The Hippopotamus
is a semi-aquatic mammal spending much of its day lolling in water
or on sand banks. A oily substance is secreted to protect the
surprisingly delicate skin from sun damage.
They spend most of their day submerged in the water mainly to
avoid the attention of biting flies. Hippos have large appetites
and are highly selective grazers of grass and reed shoots. At
night they leave the water to feed often covering considerable
distances in these excursions.
Male Hippos establish pear shaped territories in the water which
are aggressively defended against other males often having the
consequance of seriously injuring each other. Baby Hippos suckle
under water, coming up to the surface every few seconds in for
a breath.
African Wildlife Paintings by South African Artist
