Tampa’s Lowry Welcomes Baby Pygmy Hippo

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo was recently the scene of a significant conservation milestone: A rare pygmy hippopotamus was born at the facility.

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Pygmy Hippo Species Survival Plan, there were less than 40 pygmy hippos among AZA-accredited institutions in North America as of July. It is believed that there are only a few thousand pygmy hippos remaining in the wild.

The pygmy hippopotamus – more pig-like than its larger Nile-dwelling cousin – is listed as a threatened species, though the Nigerian population is considered endangered. Pygmy hippos in the wild gravitate toward shaded areas near swamps, riverbanks and muddy regions.

According to Lowry, the newborn’s mother, Zsa Zsa, also enjoys her outdoor habitat which boasts mud wallows and a swimming hole. Veterinary staff have kept a close eye on the mother and child since the birth and said that the pair has spent their first days together sleeping or resting in shallow water.

Lowry plans to offer visitors to its website the opportunity to help select a name for the new arrival. A list of names will be posted on the website allowing the online community to vote. The baby will receive the name with the most votes.

In the photo, the newborn pygmy hippopotamus explores the edge of her outdoor habitat at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo.

Photo courtesy of LOWRY PARK ZOO.