Hippo Reproduction

Male hippos (bulls) will reach sexual maturity after 7 years, and females (cows) after 9 years. They mate in the water. The gestation period takes 8 months. One calf is born underwater. Right after its birth, the baby can walk, run or swim. Calves are often left in creches guarded by one to several cows. They often climb on their mothers' backs to rest.