HIPPO
The Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious amphibious) is a large, semi-aquatic mammal. It has a massive, barrel-shaped body, short legs, and a large head with powerful jaws and tusks. Hippos spend much of their time in water to keep cool, emerging mainly at night to graze on grasses. Despite their seemingly docile nature, they are highly territorial and can be aggressive when threatened.
Distribution: Native to sub-Saharan Africa.
Size: Extremely large.
Weight: 3500 – 5860lb / 1580 – 2660 kg
Shoulder Height: 4.7ft / 1.4 m
Tusks: Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious capensis) tusks are large, elongated canine teeth that can grow significantly, with males' tusks reaching lengths of up to 16 inches (40 cm) or more. These tusks, which are located in the lower jaw, are used primarily for defence and combat with other hippos, especially during territorial disputes. They are incredibly strong and sharp, capable of inflicting serious injuries. Hippos also use their tusks to assert dominance and establish social hierarchies within groups. Despite their size, tusks are also an important tool for foraging and can be used to dig or move vegetation.
Habitat: They prefer areas with slow-moving or still water, as these provide ample space for them to submerge and stay cool during the day. Hippos are typically found in regions with abundant vegetation nearby, allowing them to graze on grasses at night. They require access to water for thermoregulation and protection from predators, making wetland habitats ideal for their survival.
Habits: Hippos are primarily nocturnal, spending the day submerged in water to keep cool and protect their skin from sunburn. They emerge at night to graze on grasses, often traveling several miles to find food. Highly social, hippos live in groups called pods, led by a dominant male. They are territorial, especially in water, and can be aggressive when threatened.
Hunting Tips: Best hunted at dawn if in the water or on land during the day. If shot in the water you will need to wait for them to bloat and rise to the surface. Your shot placement needs to be very accurate and ensure you shoot a bull.
Trophy Information
Good Tusk Length: 20’’
Record Book
SCI Min. - 50
SCI Min. Bow - 45
Rowland Ward Min. - 24
World Record - 35 5/16
Atypical world record - 64 1/2
SCI Measurement Method: 5
Rowland Ward Measurement Method: 5
Species & Subspecies Information
Species: 2 - Common Hippopotamus and Pygmy Hippopotamus.
Subspecies: 5 – Great Northern or Nile Hippo, Cape or Southern Hippo, East African Hippo, Angolan Hippo and West African Hippo.
