The common hippopotamus, Hippopotamus amphibius, is one of the largest land mammals, known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle. Viral videos showing these powerful animals consuming whole watermelons have sparked curiosity about whether this fruit is a natural or safe part of their diet. Understanding the relationship between the hippo and this sweet treat requires examining their preference for the food and their specific biological needs. This analysis contrasts the visual spectacle of consumption with the underlying nutritional science.
Observed Feeding Behavior
The direct answer to whether hippos like watermelon is yes. When presented with the fruit, hippos in managed care settings readily consume it. This behavior is often used as a form of enrichment to stimulate the animals.
The visual spectacle of a hippo eating a watermelon is striking because of the sheer force involved. The hippo’s massive jaws do not chew the fruit; instead, the animal uses its powerful bite to crush the entire melon in a single motion. The crushing power of the jaw, designed for combat, reduces the hard rind and soft pulp instantly. This rapid consumption confirms the hippo’s preference for the taste and texture of the fruit.
The Hippo’s Natural Diet
Despite their opportunistic consumption of fruit, the hippo’s biology is built around a different food source. Hippos are classified as herbivores, and their natural diet consists overwhelmingly of short grasses. They spend their days submerged in water and emerge at dusk to graze on land, often traveling several miles to find vegetation.
An adult hippo consumes approximately 80 to 110 pounds of grass per night, which is a high-volume, low-calorie diet. This fibrous food is processed through a unique digestive system featuring a three-chambered stomach that functions as a foregut fermenter. This system relies on microbial action to break down the tough cellulose in the grass. The digestive process is optimized for this high-fiber intake.
Nutritional Safety of Supplemental Foods
Watermelon’s nutritional profile contrasts sharply with the hippo’s required grass diet. The fruit is over 90 percent water, offering a benefit for hydration in hot environments. However, the pulp contains a high concentration of simple sugars and very little coarse fiber needed by their specialized digestive system.
A diet high in sugar and low in fiber can disrupt the microbial balance in the hippo’s foregut, potentially leading to digestive upset. The high sugar content can also negatively affect dental health. For these reasons, watermelon is considered a supplemental treat or behavioral enrichment in zoos, not a sustainable food source. It is only safe when offered in strict moderation, ensuring it does not replace the high-fiber grass necessary for the hippo’s long-term health.