Hippo vs. Rhino: Who Comes Out on Top?

Hippo in the green pool — Hippos spend a lot of time lounging in the water and looking cute, but don't let appearances fool you. This guy can do a lot of damage with his enormous mouth. Marco Pozzi Photographer / Getty Images

The question of hippo vs. rhino is seriously a heavyweight showdown in the world of wildlife. These massive animals share African habitats but have very different biology, behavior, and reputations.

If you're wondering which one comes out on top — or which is more dangerous — you're not alone.

Species and Size Comparison

There are five species of rhinos, including the white rhinoceros, black rhinos, Indian rhino, Sumatran rhino, and Javan rhino. Among them, the white rhino is the largest rhino species.

Rhinos have a broad chest, stubby legs, thick skin, and one or two slate-grey horns made of keratin — the same protein in human fingernails.

Hippos, or Hippopotamus amphibius, have a barrel-shaped torso, short legs, and a nearly hairless body. Hippo skin secretes a natural sunscreen, giving it a shiny, sometimes yellowish-brown appearance.

Adult males can weigh up to 9,900 pounds (4,500 kilograms), making them the third-largest land mammal after elephants and white rhinos. There’s also the pygmy hippopotamus, which is much smaller and lives in West Africa.

Behavior and Aggression

Male hippos are extremely aggressive and considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. They spend most of their day in water but can run surprisingly fast on land. Their massive jaws and ivory canine teeth — used for combat, not eating — make them a formidable threat.

Rhino attacks, while less frequent, can be equally devastating, especially from older males defending territory.

Habitat and Social Behavior

Hippos live in groups and are highly social animals, while rhinos tend to be more solitary. African rhinos prefer savannas and grasslands, while hippos stick to rivers and wetlands.

Habitat loss threatens both, and several rhino species — like the Javan and Sumatran rhinos — are critically endangered.

Which Animal Is More Dangerous?

In a hippo vs. rhino showdown, many would bet on the hippo.

Despite lacking a horn, its sharp teeth and unpredictable behavior make it lethal. Hippos kill more people each year than rhinos.

But the rhino’s large horn and powerful build shouldn't be underestimated, especially in close quarters. Both animals are among the most dangerous animals on land.

Conservation Status

While hippos are vulnerable due to poaching and habitat destruction, rhinos are in even more peril. Traditional Chinese medicine has driven demand for rhino horn, leading to severe declines in populations.

Only two extant species of African rhinos — the white and black rhinos — have substantial wild populations today.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.