Pygmy hippos are lovers of solitude - 8 interesting facts about pygmy hippos

Among the largest land animals, hippopotamus ranks third after elephants and white rhinoceroses. Let us see 10 interesting facts about pygmy hippos in this article.

1. Size and weight:

Adult hippos weigh between 160 to 270 kg. They may be around 5 to 6 feet in length.

The common hippo weighs about 10 times more than the pygmy hippo.

2. Habitat:

Pygmy hippos are native to the forest and swamps of West Africa. They live in forested water courses and swamps in tropical West Africa.

3. Lovers of solitude:

Pygmy hippos are lovers of solitude. They are solitary animals, unlike their common hippo cousins, who prefer to live in groups. They spend their nights feeding on vegetation such as grasses, fallen fruits, herbaceous plants, and leaves. During the daytime, they hide themselves in rivers or swamps.

4. Rosy skin:

Pygmy hippos' skin produces a glossy sheen from mucus glands, not muscle glands. This mucus helps keep their skin moist and protects against infections. Their skin is actually greenish-black, but the mucus gives it a rosy glow.

5. Separated toes:

Unlike common hippos, pygmy hippos have separated toes with sharp nails which help them for better moment on land. Instead of swimming in underwater they walk.

6. Fast runners:

Despite their size, pygmy hippos can run at speeds of up to 29 km per hour. Although they have stubby legs and bulky bodies, they can run as fast as humans.

7. Pygmy hippo, a gift:

In 1927, a famous pygmy hippo named Billy was gifted to U.S. President Calvin Coolidge. Billy became the ancestor of many pygmy hippos in American zoos today.

8. Endangered species:

Pygmy hippos are hunted for their meat as a source of food in the regions where they live. Due to deforestation, agriculture, and mining, pygmy hippos are losing their habitats, leading to their classification as an endangered species.