The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius; / ˌhɪpəˈpɒtəməs /; pl.: hippopotamuses), often shortened to hippo (pl.: hippos), further qualified as the common hippopotamus, Nile hippopotamus and river …

Nov 30, 2025 · hippopotamus, (Hippopotamus amphibius), amphibious African ungulate mammal. Often considered to be the second largest land animal (after the elephant), the hippopotamus is …

Hippopotamuses are large mammals found in sub-Saharan Africa. Their name comes from the Greek word for “river horse” because they're often found in water, which helps them stay cool in the hot,...

Mar 19, 2025 · Hippos are the second biggest animal on land. These water-loving creatures spend most of their time wallowing in mud but can be aggressive and dangerous if they feel their territory is being …

Watch a hippo, on land or in the water, and you’ll soon discover that this roly-poly is one of the world’s great characters. It is the most rotund land mammal and spends its daytime hours in lakes, pools, …

Nov 4, 2024 · Hippos are highly social animals, particularly common hippos, which live in groups called pods or bloats. A pod can include anywhere from 10 to 30 hippos, but in some areas with large hippo …

Sub-Saharan Africa is the home to the one of the heaviest land mammals in the world — the hippopotamus. Their dense bodies make it impossible for them to swim, even though they spend …

May 27, 2024 · Hippos are definitely adapted for life in the water and are found living in slow-moving rivers and lakes in Africa. With their eyes, ears, and nostrils on the top of the head, hippos can hear, …

Weighing up to 8,000 pounds, hippos are the heaviest land animals after the elephant. They seek refuge from the heat by living in water during the day, and at night they come ashore to feed on short, soft …

Hippo facts for kids. Learn all about where hippos live, what they eat, how they have adapted and more here at National Geographic Kids