Habitat
Rivers, lakes, and swamps near grasslands
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
40–50 years
Weight
1,500 1,800 kg
The hippopotamus is one of Africa's most dangerous animals, responsible for more human deaths than any other large animal on the continent. Despite their rotund, docile appearance, hippos are highly aggressive and territorial, capable of running at 30 km/h on land and opening their jaws to a terrifying 150 degrees.
Hippos spend up to 16 hours daily submerged in rivers and dams, emerging at night to graze on up to 35 kg of grass. In Kruger, the Sabie and Olifants Rivers are prime hippo territory, while Pilanesberg's Mankwe Dam supports a resident pod.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Rivers, lakes, and swamps near grasslands
Diet
Herbivore — short grasses (grazes at night)
Lifespan
40–50 years
Weight
1,500 1,800 kg (males), 1,300 1,500 kg (females)
Best Viewing Locations
- Kruger National Park
- Pilanesberg
- iSimangaliso
- St Lucia
Fascinating Facts
Hippos secrete a red oily substance that acts as sunscreen and antibiotic
They cannot actually swim — they walk or bounce along the bottom of rivers
A hippo can hold its breath for up to 5 minutes underwater
Their closest living relatives are whales and dolphins
