Paul Bowen Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius Physical Characteristics Broad snout, large mouth, short barrel-like body and short, stocky legs. The nostrils are located on top of the snout and can be closed. This thick, oily, pinkish substance allows them to remain in water or on dry land for long periods. Approximate life span is 41 years.
Adult males compete with each other for control of a herd.
The chief weapons are the lower canines. Bulls have a loud roar that can be heard over a great distance.