pygmy hippopotamus

The pygmy hippopotamus (Hexaprotodon liberiensis) is a species of hippopotamid mammal native to West Africa. It is significantly smaller than its larger relative, the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius), resembling a domestic pig in size and weighing up to approximately 600 pounds (270 kilograms).1

Key differences between the pygmy and common hippopotamus include:
* Aquatic Habits: The pygmy hippo is less aquatic, though it will hide in water when threatened. The common hippo is highly adapted to aquatic life.21
* Activity Pattern: Pygmy hippos are nocturnal, while common hippos are more active during the day and night.1
* Physical Features: Pygmy hippos have rounder heads with eyes on the sides, less webbing on their toes, and only one pair of lower incisor teeth. Common hippos have eyes, ears, and nostrils positioned high on their heads for submersion and possess large canine teeth.21

The pygmy hippopotamus inhabits the lowland tropical forests of Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, preferring areas near streams and swamps. It feeds on grasses, leaves, herbs, and fallen fruits. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has classified the pygmy hippopotamus as endangered since 2006.2