Hippo vs. Pygmy Hippo

Attribute	Hippo	Pygmy Hippo
Species	Hippopotamus amphibius	Choeropsis liberiensis
Size	Large	Small
Weight	Up to 3,000 kg	Around 275-300 kg
Habitat	Sub-Saharan Africa	West Africa
Diet	Herbivorous	Herbivorous

Physical Characteristics

Hippos, also known as common hippos, are large, mostly hairless mammals with barrel-shaped bodies and short legs. They have a massive head with a wide mouth and large teeth. Adult hippos can weigh up to 3,000 pounds and stand around 5 feet tall at the shoulder. In contrast, pygmy hippos are much smaller in size, weighing around 400-600 pounds and standing at about 2.5-3 feet tall. They have a more slender build and a rounder head compared to their larger counterparts.

Habitat

Hippos are primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and swamps. They spend most of their time in water to keep cool and protect their skin from the sun. Pygmy hippos, on the other hand, are native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. They are more elusive and solitary compared to common hippos, preferring to live in dense vegetation near water sources. Pygmy hippos are also more nocturnal, venturing out at night to forage for food.

Diet

Hippos are herbivores, feeding on grasses, fruits, and aquatic plants. They consume large quantities of vegetation each day to sustain their massive bodies. Pygmy hippos have a similar diet, but they are more selective in their food choices. They prefer softer vegetation and fruits, and they have been known to eat some aquatic plants as well. Both species of hippos are known to graze for several hours each night to meet their dietary needs.

Behavior

Hippos are known for their aggressive behavior, especially when defending their territory or young. They are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and are responsible for more human deaths than any other large mammal on the continent. Pygmy hippos, on the other hand, are much more timid and shy. They are rarely aggressive towards humans and are more likely to flee than confront a threat. Pygmy hippos are also known for their vocalizations, which include grunts, whistles, and squeals.

Reproduction

Hippos have a gestation period of around 8 months, after which a single calf is born. The calf is typically born underwater and will nurse for about 8 months before becoming independent. Female hippos are protective of their young and will fiercely defend them from any potential threats. Pygmy hippos have a similar reproductive cycle, with a gestation period of around 6-7 months. However, pygmy hippos are known to give birth to twins more frequently than common hippos. The calves will stay with their mother for up to a year before venturing out on their own.

Conservation Status

Hippos are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Their populations have been declining in recent years, and conservation efforts are underway to protect these iconic animals. Pygmy hippos, on the other hand, are listed as endangered by the IUCN. They face similar threats as common hippos, but their smaller population size makes them more susceptible to extinction. Conservation organizations are working to preserve the remaining habitats of pygmy hippos and raise awareness about their plight.