Dubbo Western Plains Zoo

Hippopotamus

Hippopotamus amphibius

Hippos spend the day in the water for a good reason - it keeps them cool and stos their 3.5cm thick skin from drying out and cracking. They also ooze a thick, red fluid from their skin which acts as sunburn protection and antiseptic.

Hippos graze along the river banks at night, swinging their head from side to side and clipping grass shoots with their leathery lips.

Male hippos can open their mouths incredibly wide - nearly 180 degrees. They use this giant gape and almost 50cm long teeth to fight with other males.

Hippos are very vocal and you may even hear their "wheeze honk" call.

Photographs by Justin Sullivan. Some text courtesy of Dubbo Western Plains Zoo

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