The hippos are notorious for their gigantic size and strong jaws, which are complemented by an equally impressive armada of 36 teeth – some 8 incisors, 4 canines, 12 premolars, and 12 molars. Some hippos never lose their “milk teeth,” although this results in the presence of one or two extra teeth. Most of its teeth, all self-sharpening through everyday grazing, include the incisors and the canines used for protection and fighting. On the other hand, the flat and ridged premolars and molars are essential for grinding and crushing plant matter. Over time, the heavy wear of these teeth can lead to feeding problems, and if severe, older or weaker hippos may starve to death.
Perhaps one of the most interesting things about hippos is their amazingly powerful jaws. Their jaws can open as wide as 150 to 180 degrees, which enables them to deliver strong bites with a force of approximately 1,800 pounds per square inch. For comparison, lions exert a bite force of about 650 psi, whereas even polar bears, very well known for their strength, register about 1,200 psi. This, in addition to the sharp and self-sharpening canines, gives the hippopotamus a very serious bite force-one of the most fearsome in the animal kingdom – despite being nearly entirely herbivorous.
Though hippos feed on grasses, small shoots, and seeds, they are generally known to be quite aggressive and territorial. They are listed among the most dangerous large terrestrial mammals, especially if they feel that either themselves or their young are threatened, or when defending their territorial boundaries. Hippopotamuses, due to their enormous size, rapid motion in the water, and crushing force of their jaws, inflict grievous or fatal injuries among humans and other animals. These aggressive behaviors, together with their ecological dominance, stamp their reputation as powerful wild beasts.
Ironically, even though hippos are essentially herbivores, rare instances have been recorded in which hippos have shown carnivorous behavior, too, with the consumption of other hippos’ flesh. These are supposedly motivated by ecological distress and health problems such as malnutrition, revealing that a hippopotamus can adopt a flexible mode of survival in unenviable conditions. These instances amply demonstrate that with variations in the environment, diet might change to reflect resiliency and instincts for survival.
The interesting yet formidable nature of the hippo, with its herbivorous diet and lethal strength in its jaws, places it in a very peculiar position. Hippos not only feed but also contribute to their ecosystem, given that their behaviors have consequences for vegetation and hydrological systems in their habitats. Yet, the struggles they experience-from toothwear to environmental stressors – are important reminders of how fragile a balance they can maintain in the wild. Understanding these magnificent creatures underlines their adaptability and the risks they pose when either their environment or territorial instincts are threatened.
GET IN TOUCH
To contact an expert travel planner to start planning your adventure in Kenya, click the button below: