| |
Hippopotamus amphibus
Once numerous in all African rivers
and streams with deep water, the hippo is now largely restricted
to natural parks and wildlife refuges. While hippos are found throughout
the Okavango Delta their numbers are lower than popularly expected.
This is attributed to previous hunting practices and the lack of
grazing in the watery nothern sections of the Okavango Delta. This
huge animal averages between 1,100-1,400 kg and can weigh as much
as 3,200 kg. Its body is so sparsely covered by hair that it appears
naked. On its skin are pores which exude droplets of moisture containing
red pigment. As light is reflected through these droplets they appear
red, giving rise to the statement that hippos “sweat blood.”
The hippopotamus is perfectly at home in the water, mating and giving
birth there. Due to its specific gravity, it can submerge itself
completely and walk on the bottom of the river. It comes up on land
to feed on grasses and crops, mainly at night, and is most dangerous
when it feels cut off from its watery environment.
|
|
| |
