A New Member at Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed a new pygmy hippo baby, born two weeks earlier than expected. The baby is being kept away from the public with its mother, Gloria. Pygmy hippos are an endangered species found in West Africa.

The Birth Story

The pygmy hippo baby was born at the end of July. The zookeepers and veterinarians had predicted the birth would be two weeks later. But the baby arrived early, surprising everyone. Hoofstock team leader Jonny Appleyard said, 'It was a real surprise, we saw a new face next to its mom.'

About Pygmy Hippos

Pygmy hippos are found in West Africa. However, they are endangered due to the loss of their habitats. According to the London Zoological Society, there are only 2,000 to 2,500 pygmy hippos left in the wild. That's why everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is thrilled about the baby's birth.

Habitat

Pygmy hippos live in swamp forests. They are similar to the common hippos found in East Africa but are only found in West Africa in swamp forests or rivers. It's rare to see them in the wild because there are so few of them, and they are only active at night. That's why research is often done in zoos.

Diet

Pygmy hippos eat a lot. According to experts, they can eat for at least six hours a day. As herbivores, pygmy hippos eat grasses, roots, and fruits.

Size

Pygmy hippos are about one-tenth the size of regular hippos, but they weigh as much as a male lion.

Skin

Pygmy hippos have shiny skin due to the small mucus glands all over their bodies. These glands secrete a pink liquid that helps protect the hippos from dehydration and sunburn. This liquid also gives their black skin a pink sheen.

Conclusion

The new pygmy hippo baby at Edinburgh Zoo will help with the conservation of this species. We can learn more about pygmy hippos and help protect them by visiting zoos. In the future, with more pygmy hippo births, we can contribute to the conservation of this species.