Hippos may be added to the list of the world's most endangered animals due to dwindling populations caused by climate change, poaching, and the ivory trade.
Semi-aquatic mammals can be found in lakes and rivers throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.
Estimated population of Hippos lies between 115,000 to 130,000.
The Cites Convention on International Transfer in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora permits the trade of hippos for both commercial gain and as hunting trophies.
Due to their extreme aggression and unpredictability, hippos are among the most hazardous animals in the world.
Loss of habitat and ivory and meat poaching pose threats to them (canine teeth).
Between 2009 and 2018, it is estimated that at least 77,579 hippo parts and products were legally traded.
Hippos were classified as vulnerable to extinction on the IUCN red list in 2016, owing to local declines, particularly in West Africa.
The hippopotamus is one of the world's heaviest land animals, with males weighing up to 1,800 kg.