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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas 20 facts

20 facts about the African hippopotamus for kids


18. Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and are around 6 feet tall weighing upwards of 8,000 pounds
Hippos resting in the sand

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas only a hippopotamus will do.

20 facts about the African hippopotamus for kids


1. Hippos spend up to 16 hours a day submerged in rivers and lakes to keep their massive bodies cool.


2. A baby hippo is called a calf and weighs nearly 100 pounds at birth.


3. A female hippopotamus is called a cow.


4. A group of hippos in known as a school.


5. A male hippopotamus is called a bull.


6. Hippos eyes and nostrils are located high on their heads, which allows them to see and breathe while mostly submerged.


7. Hippos can easily outrun a human running up to speeds on 20 miles per hour.


8. Hippos secrete an oily red substance, which gave rise to the myth that they sweat blood.

Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length.
Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length
9. Hippopotamuses give birth in water.


10. Female hippos have only one calf every two years.


11. Hippopotamuses spend a large amount of time in water such as rivers, lakes and swamps.


12. Hippos are threatened by habitat loss and poachers who hunt them for their meat and teeth.


13. Hippos are herbivores grassing on nearly 80 pounds of grass per day.


14. Hippos typically live for around 40 years.


15. The closest relations of the hippopotamus are whales and dolphins.


16. Hippos teeth can grow up to 3 feet in length.


17. Hippopotamuses love water, which is why the Greeks named them the river horse.


18. Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa and are around 6 feet tall weighing upwards of 8,000 pounds.


19. Hippos are responsible for more human deaths than almost any other creature in Africa. Hippos live only in eastern central and southern sub-Saharan Africa.


20. Hippos travel at night up to 6 miles to find food.

Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa
Hippopotamus are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa 


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Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Gourmet Newsletter

Light African snack spicy popcorn

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