Pygmy hippo born in Scottish zoo

Edinburgh Zoo Welcomes Rare Pygmy Hippo Calf Named Haggis

Edinburgh Zoo recently welcomed a new addition to its family, a female pygmy hippo calf named Haggis. The arrival of this endangered species has sparked excitement among visitors and conservationists alike. Pygmy hippos, native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, particularly Liberia, are facing a critical decline in numbers, with only an estimated 2,500 remaining in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (ICUN).

Haggis was born to proud parents Otto and Gloria on October 30, marking a significant milestone for the conservation efforts of this rare species. The zoo has temporarily closed the hippo house to allow their expert keepers to closely monitor the well-being of both mother and calf during this sensitive period. Jonny Appleyard, the hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, expressed optimism about Haggis’s progress, stating that her personality is already beginning to shine through.

The first 30 days of Haggis’s life are crucial for her development, and the zoo is taking every precaution to ensure her health and safety. The closure of the pygmy hippo house is part of their commitment to providing the best possible care for the newest member of their family. Haggis joins her sibling Amara, who was born in 2021 and has since been relocated to London Zoo as part of the European breeding program for pygmy hippos.

The news of Haggis’s birth follows the viral sensation of Moo Deng, another pygmy hippo residing at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. While Moo Deng has captured the hearts of millions online, Appleyard emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the challenges faced by these rare and endangered species in the wild. Haggis serves as a local ambassador at Edinburgh Zoo, connecting with visitors and highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect pygmy hippos and their natural habitats.

As Haggis continues to thrive under the watchful care of Edinburgh Zoo’s dedicated team, her presence reminds us of the preciousness of biodiversity and the importance of preserving our planet’s most vulnerable species. Visit Edinburgh Zoo to catch a glimpse of this adorable pygmy hippo calf and learn more about how you can support conservation initiatives for endangered wildlife.