Hippos are large semi-aquatic and plant-eating mammals,
with a barrel-shaped body, short legs, a short tail and an enormous
head. They may seem cumbersome due to these attributes but hippos are
perfectly adapted to their environment: Their eyes, nose and ears are
located on the top of their head, so that they can see and breathe
whilst submerged in the water.
Smaller than elephants, they are considered the second-largest animals
on the planet. Males measure around 3.5m long and 1.5m tall, and can
weigh up 3,200kg which is as much as three small cars!
Hippos are most active at night, when they forage for food. In just one
night, they can guzzle down up to 35kg of their favourite grub - grass.
💡 Find out more on National Geographic
Coded by Pia No ❤🦛