Today is ‘World Hippo Day’.  I thought I would repost the one about the two types of hippo species.  Enjoy.

There are two types of hippopotamuses.  First, you have the common one that we tend to think of when we hear the name.  The one that is the top killer of humans in Africa and listed as vulnerable.  There are about 150,000 in the wild.  Then, you have the pygmy hippo, which is listed as endangered and doesn’t kill people.  There are about 3,000 in the wild.  So, what are the similarities and differences?

1. Common hippos are large and fat with heads that are bigger compared to their bodies. Pygmy hippos are small with heads smaller compared to their bodies.
2. Common hippos can run 29 mph while pygmies run 18-19 mph.
3. Both are herbivores.
4. Common has a bite force of 2000 pounds per square inch while pygmies have 1800 pounds per square inch.  Not bad for a much smaller animal.
5. Common hippos have thick, fatty skin for protection while pygmy hippos have thin skin to keep cool.
6. Pygmy hippos are antisocial and avoid attacking while common hippos live in groups and are violently territorial.
7. Pygmy hippos can reproduce easily in captivity while common hippos have trouble.
8. Common hippos have no real predators aside from humans while pygmy hippos are hunted by leopards and crocodiles.
9. Pygmy hippos have shorter legs to help them move through rainforests.  Common hippos live in shallow rivers in the plains.
10. Both species produce a sweat that acts as sunscreen and is antibacterial.
11. Common hippos are polygamous while pygmy hippos are monogamous.
12. Both have muscles that close their ears and nostrils when they dive.
13. Pygmy hippos have a four-chambered stomach while common hippos have three chambers.
14. Common hippos evolved from pygmy hippos.
15. Both can hold their breath for 5 minutes.

Now for the pictures and videos:

Common Hippo

Common Hippo

Pygmy Hippo

Pygmy Hippo