INFO HERE: The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is a large, mostly herbivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. Weighing between 3,000 to 8,000 pounds, hippos are among the heaviest land animals. Despite their bulk, they are well adapted to aquatic environments and spend most of their days submerged in rivers and lakes to keep cool. Their thick, nearly hairless skin secretes a reddish fluid that acts as both a sunscreen and antibacterial layer. Hippos are social animals, living in groups called pods or bloats, typically led by a dominant male. Although they appear slow and docile, hippos are highly territorial and can be aggressive, especially in water, making them one of Africa’s most dangerous animals. At night, they graze on grass, traveling up to several miles from the water.