The Metro Richmond Zoo in Virginia is celebrating the arrival of a newborn pygmy hippo, born on December 9, 2024. This festive birth, announced just before Christmas, marks the zoo's continued commitment to conservation efforts aimed at this endangered species.

Born to parents Iris and Corwin, the baby hippo is the third calf in just over four years, all of which are females. This is also the second time Iris has welcomed a calf right around the holiday season. The neonatal announcement highlighted that the newborn weighed approximately 15 pounds five days after birth.

In a unique scenario, Iris delivered her calf in the barn's indoor pool, the first time she has given birth in water. While most common hippos typically deliver underwater, pygmy hippos are versatile and can birth both on land and in water. The baby quickly displayed natural swimming instincts, according to the zoo's press release.

Following the birth, mother and calf were carefully moved to a cozy, hay-bedded enclosure to ensure a private bonding period. They will soon be reintroduced to the exhibit for public viewing. ABC News reported on the specialized care, noting Iris's protective nature and the calf's healthy nursing habits.

Pygmy hippos are native to the swamps and rivers of West Africa and have been classified as endangered, with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals remaining in the wild. The Metro Richmond Zoo stands out as the only facility in Virginia where visitors can see hippos, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts for these unique creatures.

The new arrival follows a summer of media excitement surrounding another pygmy hippo named Moo Deng, born in Thailand, which had captured millions of hearts and views on social media. The birth of this latest hippo at the Metro Richmond Zoo continues the trend of public fascination with these adorable animals.

For more details about this event, you can read about it on USA Today.