How Much Does a Hippopotamus Weigh?

A hippopotamus typically weighs up to 3,200 kg (3.5 tons). As the second-largest land mammal after the elephant, hippos are among the heaviest terrestrial animals. Males generally measure about 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) long and stand 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall, with a weight range of 1,600–3,200 kg (2–3.5 tons). Females are smaller, averaging 1,300–2,350 kg (1.5–2.5 tons), making males roughly 30 percent heavier. A dominant male hippo’s size advantage plays a key role in contests between males, helping him defend his territory and secure mating access.