Hippos are highly social animals and they mostly associate with other hippos. They are territorial in nature, and tend to live with their families or groups. They often form groups in which one male hippo (the dominant bull) mates with several females. Within the group hierarchy, the dominant bull tends to stay in the middle of the group while other males stay at the periphery. Hippos are also very aggressive and territorial towards strangers, and they often fight with each other for control of territory and mates.
Communication and interaction
Hippos communicate with each other through a variety of sounds and body language. They make various vocalizations, such as grunts, snorts, and bellows, each with its own meaning. For instance, a hippo makes a blowing sound when it wants to attract attention or challenge another hippo. Hippos also communicate through body language, such as head shaking and tail flicking. For example, when a hippo is feeling threatened or aggressive, it may shake its head and flick its tail.
Breeding and parenting
Hippos breed in water, and females give birth underwater. The gestation period for hippos is approximately 8 months. Calves are born weighing around 100-120 pounds and they are nursed for about 8-10 months. Calves stay close to their mothers and other females in the group for protection, and learn how to navigate their environment and find food.