THE HIPPOPOTAMUS 



duels for the right to propagate their species. They 

 attack by biting, and do not attempt to rip, after 

 the manner of pigs. 



After a period of gestation, varying from 227 to 

 242 days, one calf is produced. The young one is 

 carried by the mother on her back when in the 

 water until old enough to look after itself. 



When the calves are about to be born, a deep 

 pool is selected, and should there be crocodiles in 

 it, they are unceremoniously driven out, the Hippos 

 knowing full well that they would devour the calves 

 if permitted to remain. 



The Hippo is usually an inoffensive and peaceful 

 animal, but when wounded or cornered it will show 

 fight, and with gaping mouth attack men in canoes 

 and boats. Sometimes a boat is accidentally upset by 

 a Hippo when it is rising to the surface to breathe. 



When the calf is young, the mother Hippo will 

 often furiously attack any one venturing into her 

 haunts in a boat, she being under the impression, 

 probably, that it is some strange animal enemy. 



Hippos which have been frequently shot at 

 become exceedingly shy and timid ; and the sight 

 of a man is the signal for instant flight or conceal- 

 ment. 



Hippos in protected areas are apt to upset boats 

 in a spirit of frolic, and sometimes with evil intent. 

 In any case it is a serious matter to be thrown into 

 the water, for most of the large African rivers are 

 infested with crocodiles. 



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