Hippopotamus
The hippopotamus, or "hippo," is a semi-aquatic giant that embodies the power and presence of Africa’s rivers and wetlands. Spending much of their time submerged in water to escape the heat, hippos emerge at night to graze on grasses, consuming up to 80 pounds in a single session.
Despite their seemingly calm nature, hippos are highly territorial and can be aggressive when provoked. Their role as grazers helps maintain vegetation balance, supporting the ecosystems they inhabit. However, habitat loss and hunting threaten their populations, making conservation efforts vital for these magnificent river giants.