Two hippo species are found in Africa. The common hippo (also known as the large hippo), found in East Africa, occurs south of the Sahara. The other much smaller species of hippo is the pygmy hippopotamus. Limited to very restricted ranges in West Africa, it is a shy, solitary forest dweller, and is now endangered.

Are hippos only found in Africa?

Hippos are today only widespread in Africa south of the Sahara. They are rare in western Africa and the population is divided into a number of smaller groups, which together comprise around 130,000 animals in 19 countries. Because of the fragmented populations, the species is most threatened in western Africa.

Why do hippos kill their babies?

It is believed that hippos sometimes kill children when they are populated or fight some kind of illness. ... Hippos tend to attack very stray people near their water pond, fearing that their calves may be at risk.