Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius), Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is a large, mostly herbivorous mammal in sub-Saharan Africa, and one of only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae (the other is the Pygmy Hippopotamus). The hippopotamus is semi-aquatic, inhabiting rivers, lakes and mangrove swamps, where territorial bulls preside over a stretch of river and groups of 5 to 30 females and young. During the day they remain cool by staying in the water or mud. They emerge at dusk to graze on grass. The hippopotamus is one of the most aggressive creatures in the world and is often regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. There are an estimated 125,000 to 150,000 hippos throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. They are still threatened by habitat loss and poaching for their meat and ivory canine teeth.
Year: 2015
From album: African Biodiversity
Photographer: Peter Prokosch