Pygmy Hippo Calf Makes Its Debut at Taronga Zoo Sydney

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: December 10, 2021 12:30 am

A pygmy hippo calf born at Taronga Zoo Sydney swims in the water during her exhibit debut

Photo Credit: Taronga Zoo Sydney

The pygmy hippo calf born on November 22nd 2021 at Taronga Zoo Sydney has made its public debut. Guests can now see the calf with mum Kambiri with the best time being soon after the zoo opens.

Senior Ungulate Keeper Renae Moss said: “Over the past couple of days we have given mum and the calf supervised access to their main exhibit, where, we watched on as she explored her surroundings and took her very first swim in the big pool. Everything went swimmingly! It was such a privilege to watch and cheer along the sideline” says Moss.

“Like most newborns, the calf was a little hesitant at first and took her time going into the pool, however, after a little encouragement from mum, became more confident,” says Moss.

“Over the next couple of days, as the calf masters the art of swimming and becomes more confident in and out of the water, we will begin to increase the depth of the pool and remove some baby proofing within the exhibit like fencing,” says Moss.

“We are really happy with the progress of the calf. Kambiri is a great mother and has been very maternal and protective which is exactly what we want. As the calf grows in confidence and in size she will become more and more active, so we cannot wait for our guests to come and meet her these summer school holidays” says Moss.

— AD —

Now that the calf is ready to meet the public it is time for a name. Keepers have selected three names and are asking the public to vote on their favorite. The best entries will win an entry to Taronga Zoo Sydney.

The names to be voted on are

Amara, which means ‘filled with beauty and grace’ and is of West African origin

Sierra after the country of Sierra Leone

Sapo after Sapo National Park located in Sinoe County, Liberia.

Cast your vote here – Taronga Zoo Pygmy Hippo Comp

Pygmy hippos are threatened in their native range in western Africa. Unfortunately they are threatened by habitat loss, conflict and poaching.

Learn more about Pygmy Hippos here – Pygmy Hippo Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about Taronga Zoo Sydney on their website – Taronga Zoo Sydney