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New hope for endangered pygmy hippos as UK zoo welcomes calf
4 May 2021, 13:52
Edinburgh Zoo are celebrating as they welcome a new member to their family.
A pygmy hippo calf has been born in Edinburgh Zoo.
The little calf, who is part of an endangered species, was born to parents Otto and Gloria on April 17, weighing only 11lb 14oz.
The first pictures of the little hippo have been released, and they're just as cute as we expected.
Native to West Africa, the pygmy hippo has become an endangered over the years due to logging, farming and human settlements in the area, alongside hunting for bushmeat.
The birth of the female calf brings new hope for the species, whose numbers are declining.
While the Zoo's staff are thrilled at the new arrival, they're making sure she doesn't get too overwhelmed and spends enough time with mum Gloria.
Jonny Appleyard, the zoo’s hoofstock team leader, said: "Our new arrival is doing really well and is growing stronger and more confident every day.
“As she is still so young, we are limiting opening hours and numbers in our indoor viewing area to give the calf and mum Gloria some time to get used to visitors."
He added: “The first 30 days are critical for her development, so we’ll be keeping a close eye on them both at this sensitive time and plan to name her in the coming weeks.”
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