Meet Haggis: An Extremely Uncommon Pygmy Hippo Born at Edinburgh Zoo

A uncommon pygmy hippo calf, named Haggis, was born at Edinburgh Zoo on October 30, marking an vital addition to the inhabitants of this endangered species. Weighing only a few kilograms, this tiny calf is already displaying a vigorous character. Based on Jonny Appleyard, Hoofstock Workforce Chief at Edinburgh Zoo, Haggis is “doing very well to this point” and her early interactions have thrilled the zookeepers. Nevertheless, the pygmy hippo home will stay closed for the subsequent month to make sure the calf’s growth in the course of the crucial early days of life.

Pygmy Hippos at Danger of Extinction

Pygmy hippos, native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, face important threats to their survival. With fewer than 2,500 remaining within the wild, the species is at present categorized as endangered by the Worldwide Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat destruction and looking are the first causes behind their decline, particularly in nations like Liberia the place they’re focused for bushmeat. Conservation efforts are underway in varied nations, and every beginning in captivity, reminiscent of Haggis’s, gives an important alternative to boost public consciousness concerning the pressing want for cover.

International Curiosity in Pygmy Hippos Following Viral Fame

The recognition of pygmy hippos surged just lately when a hippo named Moo Deng from Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo turned a social media sensation as a consequence of her lovable look. Edinburgh Zoo’s new arrival, Haggis, now serves as an envoy of types for her species, connecting guests with conservation messages concerning the challenges pygmy hippos face of their pure habitat.

Haggis’s dad and mom, Otto and Gloria, had beforehand welcomed one other calf, Amara, in 2021. Amara was later relocated to ZSL London Zoo as a part of a European breeding initiative to strengthen genetic variety inside captive pygmy hippo populations.