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What Is a Pygmy Hippopotamus?

R. Britton
R. Britton

The pygmy hippopotamus is taxonomically or scientifically classified as Choreopsis liberiensis or Hexaprotodon liberiensis, as there is debate among the scientific community surrounding which scientific classification is the correct term for these creatures, though either one is acceptable. Related to the much larger common, or Nile, hippopotamus, the pygmy hippo, although far more secretive and primarily forest dwelling, shares much of the aggressive tendencies of its larger relative. Not much is known about the pygmy hippopotamus in its natural habitat due to its shy and nocturnal nature. It was not classified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as endangered until 2006. There is an active captive breeding program throughout the world that aims to prevent the extinction of this solitary, secretive mammal.

A quiet, secretive, forest-dwelling mammal, the pygmy hippopotamus is not as small as the name implies. It is, however, considerably smaller than the common hippo to which it is related, standing 2.5 feet (75 centimeters) tall and weighing around 600 pounds (275 kilograms). Despite its small stature, it can be extremely aggressive, much like its larger relative, when defending juveniles and territory, or when it feels threatened. The large, tusk-like teeth and powerful jaws can inflict a variety of serious injuries, including punctures, gores, and crush injuries. Incidents of this type involving humans are very rare in the wild, as the pygmy hippopotamus avoids human contact as much as possible.

A pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than the common hippo.
A pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than the common hippo.

Usually coming together only to breed, the pygmy hippopotamus tends to be a solitary creature. Females are able to bear one calf every other year, with the infant remaining with the mother for around two years. Males play no part in rearing the calf, leaving all parental responsibility to the female. Although these muscular animals are accomplished swimmers, they spend the majority of their time in the dense vegetation of the forest floor. According to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, the pygmy hippopotamus can live up to 50 years in captivity. The majority of the information surrounding this animal comes from captive specimens because their secretive nature and potentially aggressive behavior makes field studies in the natural habitat virtually impossible.

The population of the pygmy hippo continues to decrease as time passes, prompting research on the total amount still alive in the wild. A survey conducted in 1993 estimated a total wild population of only 2000 to 3000 individuals, surviving only in isolated pockets across four West African countries. Despite this disturbing survey, they were not placed on the IUCN Red List as endangered until 2006. The IUCN states that the wild population continues to decline at an alarming rate due to civil conflicts, habitat loss, and poaching, as well as ineffectual legal protection, and farmers shooting the creatures in an attempt to reduce crop damage.

Many zoos, animal sanctuaries, and wildlife parks across the world participate in a pygmy hippopotamus breeding program. This program aims to prevent the extinction of the pygmy hippopotamus and has long-term goals of reintroducing captive bred specimens into suitable habitat, primarily in areas where they have become locally extinct. By continuing this program and naturalizing captive-bred groups in the wild over time, it is hoped that the wild population will increase to sustainable levels and the endangered species status can be lowered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pygmy Hippopotamus?

A Pygmy Hippopotamus is a smaller cousin of the common hippopotamus, native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. It's a reclusive, nocturnal animal that spends much of its time in water. Unlike its larger relative, the pygmy hippo is solitary and less aquatic, but it still relies on water to keep its skin moist and to regulate its body temperature.

How big does a Pygmy Hippopotamus get?

The Pygmy Hippopotamus typically grows to about 5 feet in length and stands about 2.5 feet tall at the shoulder. It weighs between 400 and 600 pounds, which is significantly smaller than the common hippopotamus that can weigh up to 4,000 pounds. Despite its smaller size, the pygmy hippo retains the same robust, barrel-shaped body of its larger relative.

What does the Pygmy Hippopotamus eat?

Pygmy Hippopotamuses are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, ferns, fruits, and other vegetation they find in the forests. They may also consume aquatic plants. Their diet is high in fiber and they are known to feed at night, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and darkness to avoid predators and conserve energy.

Is the Pygmy Hippopotamus endangered?

Yes, the Pygmy Hippopotamus is classified as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat loss due to logging, farming, and human settlement, along with poaching for meat and teeth, are the primary threats to their survival. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their habitats and reduce the impact of human activities.

How does the Pygmy Hippopotamus behave in the wild?

In the wild, Pygmy Hippopotamuses are solitary and secretive animals, spending much of their time alone except during mating or when mothers are raising their young. They are primarily nocturnal, resting in the water by day and foraging for food at night. They are less aggressive than their larger counterparts but can be territorial.

How long does a Pygmy Hippopotamus live?

In the wild, Pygmy Hippopotamuses have a lifespan of around 30 to 40 years, although this can be shorter due to predation and human threats. In captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 50 years. Their longevity is influenced by factors such as habitat quality, diet, and the presence of diseases or poachers.

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    • A pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than the common hippo.
      By: sattapapan tratong
      A pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than the common hippo.