The Metro Richmond Zoo is celebrating the arrival of an adorable baby pygmy hippo, born just before Christmas. The female calf, born to proud parents Iris and Corwin, is their third daughter in under five years. Born in an indoor pool after a seven-month gestation, the little one immediately showcased her instincts by moving in the water right away.
Weighing a healthy 15 pounds at just five days old, the calf is expected to grow up to 600 pounds. For now, she’s bonding privately with her experienced and protective mother, Iris, away from public view. Zoo officials report that the newborn is thriving, nursing well, and growing quickly.
The birth is a vital boost for the endangered pygmy hippo species, which faces threats like habitat loss and poaching. With fewer than 2,500 mature pygmy hippos remaining in the wild, the zoo’s breeding efforts play a crucial role in their conservation. Iris’ previous calves have been moved to other zoological facilities to contribute to the species’ survival.
Describing the occasion as an exciting gift, the zoo expressed excitement over the rare and precious addition. “Most people don’t get a hippopotamus for Christmas, so we feel lucky to have received two over the years,” they shared.