In a momentous occasion, Athens’ Attica Zoological Park celebrates the birth of a rare and endangered pygmy hippopotamus, marking the first such birth in a decade and igniting joy among conservationists.
Breeding efforts for pygmy hippos in captivity have faced challenges due to the scarcity of male specimens, making the arrival of a male calf a cause for jubilation, according to Noi Psaroudaki, the zoo’s wildlife veterinarian, who expressed absolute delight to Reuters.
“This birth in 2024 is not just any birth; it’s a milestone!” Psaroudaki exclaimed. “Each birth of a pygmy hippo in captivity holds immense significance. Witnessing this baby thrive and hopefully mature into a reproductive adult fills us with hope for the conservation of this remarkable species.”
Pygmy hippos, indigenous to the swamps and rainforests of western Africa, confront the threat of extinction, with only a dwindling population estimated at 2,000-2,500 remaining in their natural habitat, as highlighted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Weighing a modest 15.4 pounds, the male calf, soon to be bestowed with a name through popular vote, entered the world on February 19. He now joins his parents, Lizzie and Jamal, as the sole representatives of pygmy hippos at the zoo.
By nature, pygmy hippos are solitary and nocturnal creatures. The newborn will spend the initial months under the nurturing care of his mother before gradually transitioning to exploring the outdoor enclosure, a significant milestone in his journey towards independence and maturity.