Sydney’s Taronga Zoo has announced the birth of a baby Pygmy Hippopotamus.
The offspring, named Lololi, was born from Australia’s only breeding pair of Hippos, mother Kambiri and father Fergus on January 16 at 3.05am.
Mother and baby are doing well, the zoo’s staff have reported.
“Kambiri and the calf have been hitting all milestones we hope to observe, suckling, swimming, and growing daily. Born at a tiny 4kgs, the little calf is now weighing in at just under 20kg,” Senior Ungulate Keeper Renae Moss said.
“Just like all newborns, Lololi often falls asleep whilst suckling and attempting to climb on mum Kambiri after playing in the pool.
“Kambiri is very attentive to Lololi, especially while she explores the outdoor habitat and familiarises herself with the increasing depths of the pool,” Moss said.
Lololi and her mum Kambiri can be spotted at Taronga Zoo in the morning, when the pair enjoy outdoor exploration together.
In West Africa, the calf’s name means “there is always love.”
Only 2500 Pygmy Hippos remain in the wild, with the species listed as endangered.
The animal is only found in small populations in the West African Lowland forest, as well as in wetland habitats.
(9 news)
