Meet baby hippos: Africa’s adorable water babies who melt hearts

Baby hippos are some of the cutest animals you’ll see. They live in rivers and lakes across Africa and, though small compared to their huge parents, they have interesting habits. Most of their time is spent in the water, learning skills they need to survive.

They stay close to their mothers, who guide and protect them as they grow.In these early years, baby hippos show a gentle and playful side. They love to splash in the mud and explore, showing how curious and lively they are. Watching them with their family is both heartwarming and full of little surprises.

They’re born heavyBaby hippos aren’t very small– they usually weigh over 50 kilos when they’re born. In the first few months, they rely entirely on their mother’s milk.

As they grow, their bodies develop quickly to get ready for adult life. Gradually, they start eating grass and learn to graze just like their parents.They can drink milk underwaterHippo calves spend a lot of time in the water, even as newborns. Interestingly, they can drink their mother’s milk underwater. Their nostrils and ears close automatically to keep water out while feeding. This smart adaptation helps them stay safe in rivers and makes nursing easier.

It’s just one of the many ways hippos are built for life in both water and on land.

Hippos don’t know how to swimEven though hippos live in rivers and lakes, they can’t really swim because their bodies are too heavy to float. Instead, they move by pushing off the riverbed or walking along it. Baby hippos start learning this early, using their strong little legs to get around in the water. As they grow, they can hold their breath longer and stay underwater more easily.They stay very close to their mothersIn the first few weeks after birth, a mother hippo and her calf stay almost always together. The calf rests on her back, cuddles, and follows her closely for safety and comfort. This bond isn’t just about protection– it also helps the calf feel secure and build confidence. They stay close for several years until the young hippo is ready to become independent.

They start making sounds earlyBaby hippos can be very vocal. They make squeaks, croaks, and other sounds both in water and on land. These noises help them stay in touch with their mothers and other hippos. Even though the sounds are small, they are important for communication and show how social hippos can be from an early age.Images: Canva (for representative purposes only) Disclaimer: The information in this article is drawn from online sources and ecological studies. Some details may vary depending on species and regions.