Hippopotamus behavior

Hippopotamuses are mostly active at night, spending days submerged in water to stay cool and protect their skin from sunburn. They emerge at dusk to graze on grass, consuming large amounts in a few hours. Hippos are usually social animals, living in groups called pods that include mothers, calves, and a dominant male. They communicate through grunts, bellows, and body language, and can be territorial, especially males defending their space. Despite their bulky appearance, they’re surprisingly agile in water, often moving swiftly underwater. Their behavior balances social needs, territoriality, and environmental adaptations for survival.