How do hippopotamuses live?
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Hippopotamuses are large herbivores found in rivers, lakes, and swamps throughout sub-Saharan Africa. They spend most of their time submerged in water to keep cool, emerging at night to graze on grasses. Hippos have large mouths and can consume up to 80 pounds of vegetation in a single night. They are social animals, living in groups called pods, which can consist of 10-30 individuals. Hippos are highly territorial, especially in the water, and will fiercely protect their space. Mating occurs in water, and after a gestation period of about 8 months, females give birth to a single calf. The calf is typically born in the water and stays with the mother for several years.