Endangered pygmy finally meets public in Virginia zoo
2 min read
Baby Hippo Born in Virginia
The public at last has the chance to see a new endangered pygmy hippopotamus at a Virginia zoo, after officials at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Moseley announced that mother Iris and her female calf returned to their indoor pool area on December 30. This marked a significant moment for the zoo, as it was the calf’s first time entering the water since her birth three weeks earlier in the same pool.
The calf, born on December 9, had spent the first few weeks of her life outside of the water, adjusting to her new environment. On her first day back in the pool, zoo officials lowered the water level to help the baby hippo become familiar with her surroundings. Gradually, the zoo plans to increase the water level each day, allowing the calf to build her comfort and confidence in the water.
The pygmy hippo, native to the swamps and rivers of West Africa, is a critically endangered species. The zoo reports that fewer than 2,500 mature pygmy hippos remain in the wild, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for this unique and elusive animal. Despite the challenges faced by the species in its natural habitat, the zoo’s new addition offers a hopeful glimpse into the future, with the calf expected to thrive in the protective environment of the zoo.
The pygmy hippo, which is smaller than the common hippopotamus, is known for its nocturnal and solitary nature, making it a difficult animal to study in the wild. Conservationists are working to protect these rare creatures from habitat loss and poaching, which continue to threaten their survival. The zoo’s successful breeding program and the birth of the calf are vital steps in supporting the species’ survival and raising awareness about its endangered status.
This exciting new addition to the Metro Richmond Zoo offers visitors the rare opportunity to witness the growth and development of a pygmy hippo calf, as well as the chance to learn about the challenges faced by these animals in the wild. With the return of mother and calf to the pool, the zoo aims to inspire future generations to support efforts to preserve endangered species and protect the delicate ecosystems that sustain them.
About The Author
