* Age: Young hippos need less space than adults.
* Sex: Generally, males need more space than females.
* Number of hippos: A single hippo needs less space than a herd.
* Enclosure type: A large, naturalistic enclosure with varied terrain and water features will require more space than a smaller, more basic enclosure.
General Guidelines:
* Minimum: A minimum of 1,000 square meters (10,764 square feet) per hippo is recommended, but this is considered inadequate by many zoo professionals.
* Ideal: A spacious enclosure with at least 2,500 square meters (26,910 square feet) per hippo allows for more natural behaviors and social interactions.
* Water: A large pool or pond is essential, as hippos spend a significant amount of time in water.
* Land: The land area should be diverse and include a variety of features, such as mud wallows, grassy areas, and shaded areas.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has specific guidelines for hippopotamus enclosures:
* Minimum: 1,000 square meters (10,764 square feet) for a single hippo.
* Ideal: 2,500 square meters (26,910 square feet) for a single hippo.
* Water: The water area should be at least 50% of the total enclosure area.
* Land: The land area should be at least 50% of the total enclosure area.
Important Note: These are just guidelines. The best enclosure for a hippo will be one that is designed to meet the individual needs of the animal, based on factors such as age, sex, and personality.
It's always a good idea to check with the specific zoo you're visiting to see how they provide space and enrichment for their hippopotamuses.