Class: MAMMALIA

Order: ARTIODACTYLA

Family: HIPPOPOTAMIDAE

Genus: CHOEROPSIS

Species: LIBERIENISIS

The smaller of the two living hippopotanoids, both of which are commonly referred to simply as 'hippos'. This species has a smaller and more specialised range than its larger counterpart, in small areas of Central Africa. This species of hippopotamus is rare to observe in the wild, where their preferred habitat is forest. It is thought that the Pygmy Hippopotamus diverged from the Hippopotamus genus some 7 million years ago. Numerous reasons may explain the relative smallness of the Pygmy Hippopotamus - with a smaller surface area, it absorbs less heat - and its hide is glossy for the same reason. Small size also makes its presence less noticeable to potential predators. Being smaller also helps it to move quicker in the rainforest.