The pygmy hippopotamus, Choeropsis liberiensis, is native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. Primarily found in Liberia, with smaller populations in Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ivory Coast, it differs significantly from its larger relative, the common hippopotamus. Pygmy hippos have a more rounded head, a proportionally longer neck, and eyes positioned on the side of their head, unlike the common hippo whose eyes are on top. They are classified as endangered, with possibly fewer than 3,000 individuals remaining in their natural habitat.
Aggression Levels Compared to Common Hippos
Pygmy hippos differ notably in aggression from common hippos. Common hippos are recognized for their territoriality and can be highly aggressive, often attacking anything they perceive as a threat, including humans and boats. Their aggression stems from defending their aquatic territories, competing for mates, and protecting their young. In contrast, pygmy hippos are much less aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation.
The distinct lifestyles of the two species contribute to these behavioral differences. Common hippos live in large social groups called “bloats” and spend much of their day submerged in water, making them fiercely protective of their shared space. Pygmy hippos, however, are largely solitary and spend more time on land in dense forest environments. Their reclusive nature and habitat allow them to evade threats rather than direct conflict.
Typical Behavior and Temperament
Pygmy hippos are secretive, primarily nocturnal animals that spend their days resting in hidden spots within swamps, wallows, or rivers, emerging at night to forage for food. Their reclusive nature makes them difficult to observe in the wild; much understanding comes from zoo studies. They are largely solitary, though they can sometimes be found in pairs.
Their diet consists mainly of leaves, roots, ferns, and fruits found on the forest floor, and they can stand on their hind legs to reach higher vegetation. Pygmy hippos are more terrestrial than common hippos, with less webbing between their toes, which aids in walking on the forest floor. They establish well-defined paths through dense vegetation for travel between feeding and resting areas. When encountering other pygmy hippos, they tend to ignore each other, avoiding aggressive interactions.
Factors Influencing Behavior
While generally timid, pygmy hippos can exhibit defensive behaviors under specific circumstances. They generally prefer to flee from danger rather than fight. However, if they feel cornered or perceive a direct threat, they may use defensive tactics such as rearing, lunging, head shaking, and scooping water with their mouths to deter potential threats.
Mothers will protect their calves, which are born on land and initially hidden in dense bushes while the mother forages. Although less territorial than common hippos, males do mark their home ranges with droppings, and these territories can overlap. During breeding season, males may display aggression by baring their teeth and engaging in fights to gain access to females.