Hippopotamuses are some of the most fearsome and iconic animals in Africa. With their massive size, powerful jaws, and surprisingly aggressive nature, it’s easy to assume that hippos don’t have any predators. And while adult hippos are indeed difficult to hunt, they’re not entirely invincible. Let’s explore what animals pose a threat to hippos in the wild—and when.
Adult Hippos: Too Big to Mess With?
Adult hippos can weigh over 1,500 kg (3,300 lb), making them the third-largest land mammals after elephants and white rhinos. They’re also incredibly territorial and aggressive, especially in the water. With jaws strong enough to crush bones and a bite force estimated at over 1,800 PSI, few animals are bold enough to challenge a full-grown hippo.
So, do they have any natural predators?
Very few. But not none.
- Lions occasionally target adult hippos, especially if the hippo is injured, sick, or isolated from its group.
- Crocodiles may try to bite or harass adult hippos, but usually avoid direct conflict. Hippos are known to intimidate or even kill crocodiles that get too close.
- Humans are arguably the most dangerous predators to hippos, through both hunting and habitat loss.
In short, healthy adult hippos have almost no natural predators—but they’re not entirely off-limits.
What About Baby Hippos?
While adults are hard to kill, calves are vulnerable—especially when they stray from their mothers.
Common predators of baby hippos include:
- Nile crocodiles
- Lions
- Hyenas
- Leopards
Hippo calves are typically born in water and remain close to their mothers for protection. Mothers are fiercely protective and will fight off predators, sometimes with fatal consequences. However, it’s estimated that up to 50% of hippo calves die before reaching adulthood, often due to predation or infanticide (by adult male hippos competing for dominance).
Do Crocodiles and Hippos Fight?
It’s one of nature’s most dramatic showdowns—hippo vs. crocodile.
Both species share African rivers and lakes, and although they often coexist peacefully, tensions can flare up. Crocodiles may try to snatch calves or scavenge from dead hippos, while hippos—especially males—may assert dominance by chasing or attacking crocs.
Despite this, most crocodiles give adult hippos a wide berth. There’s a reason you rarely see a croc win a battle against a full-grown hippo.
The Human Threat
Unfortunately, the most significant threat to hippos today is us.
Humans hunt hippos for their meat, ivory (extracted from their teeth), and sport. In some regions, human-hippo conflicts arise when hippos damage crops or pose a threat to villages.
More importantly, habitat loss due to agriculture, dam construction, and climate change is shrinking the space available for wild hippos. While not classified as endangered, hippos are considered vulnerable, with declining populations in many areas.
Final Thoughts
So, do hippos have predators?
- Adults: Rarely—only lions or crocodiles might try, and usually fail.
- Calves: Yes—many African predators will target them if given the chance.
- Biggest threat overall: Humans, through both hunting and environmental impact.
Hippos are mighty and respected in the wild, but even they aren’t completely free from danger. Their best defense? Strength, aggression, and the protection of the herd.
