HIPPOPOTAMUS
Hippopotamus amphiblus
Native to central Africa, these nocturnal mammals are commonly found at or in deep water rivers with marshes and reeds. The average length of a hippo is approximately 11 feet with a shoulder height of 4.5 to 5 feet. A male can weigh between 3,500 and 7,000 pounds, while the female is much smaller reaching approximately 3,000 pounds. They have a large, broad mouth and short, broad legs with four toes on each foot. A hippo's eyes, ears and nose are all found on the top of the head so the animal can see, hear and breathe while remaining mostly submerged.

Why, you may ask, is an African species found at a Florida park with all native wildlife? Well, Lu has lived here all his life. He was a big movie star when this was an exotic animal park. Local residents took a special liking to Lu and often visited him between his many movies. When the park went to strictly native species, Lu was bound for a transfer. You can imagine the demand for a 6,000-pound hippopotamus is not particularly high. When the locals caught wind of the intended transfer, they put up a fight to keep Lu here. Needless to say, their voices were heard, and Lu was granted honorary state citizenship.
The Hippo Facts

• Hippos are able to remain fully submerged for up to 30 minutes but usually surface every 3 to 5 minutes.

• Female hippos reach sexual maturity at 5 to 6 years after which they enter estrus twice a year. The gestation period lasts approximately 8 months and a newborn hippo weighs in around 60 to 110 pounds.

• Offspring are born and nurse underwater.

• A hippo's lifespan is commonly 40 to 50 years.
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Photo by Milt Flood
COMMONLY KNOWN AS:
Hippo
Black Bear - Alligator - Whitetail deer - Keydeer - Bobcat - Cougar - Snakes - Hippo - Birds of Prey - Otter - Waterbirds - Manatee - Squirrels
Park Map - Fishbowl - Museum - Boat dock - Main Entrance