Class: MAMMALIA

Order: ARTIODACTYLA

Family: HIPPOPOTAMIDAE

Genus: CHOEROPSIS

Species: LIBERIENISIS

The smaller of the two living hippopotanoids, both of which are commonly referred to simply as 'hippos'. This species has a smaller and more specialised range than its larger counterpart, in small areas of Central Africa. It is thought that the Pygmy Hippopotamus diverged from the Hippopotamus genus some 7 million years ago. Two sub-species are recognised - but only one is believed to be of extance. The Western Pygmy Hippopotamus, C. l. liberiensis, is found in areas of western Africa, with most being found in the country of Liberia. The Nigerian, or Eastern Pygmy Hippopotamus, C. l. heslopi, is found in countries east of the Liberian range - but has not been observed since the early 20th century, and is thought to be extinct.