Hippos, short for hippopotamuses, are large, mostly herbivorous mammals native to Africa. They are known for their massive bodies, large mouths, and short legs. Despite their size, hippos are surprisingly agile in water, where they spend much of their time to keep cool. They can hold their breath underwater for several minutes and often graze on grass during the night. These social animals usually live in groups called pods, which can consist of up to 30 individuals. Hippos are known for their territorial behavior, especially in water. They communicate through a variety of sounds, including grunts and wheezes, making them fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom.