Hippo

The hippo is a massive, water-loving mammal found in sub-Saharan Africa. It spends most of its time in rivers and lakes, with just its eyes and nostrils poking above the surface. Its Greek name means 'river horse,' though it's more closely related to whales than horses.

• Hippos are one of two living species in their family, the other being the pygmy hippo.
• They can completely submerge for up to five minutes before surfacing to breathe.
• Despite their bulky bodies, hippos can move swiftly on land for short distances.