Offspring of the pygmy hippos
After four and a half years, another pygmy hippopotamus birth at Chemnitz Zoo
On 4 April 2016, pygmy hippopotamus "Petty" gave birth to a cub. The birth was without complications and mother and baby are currently doing well. Since today, both can also be seen for a few hours in the indoor enclosure, where they can be observed by visitors.
The calf is most likely female and will be given its name by the zookeepers. The father, pygmy hippopotamus bull "Bingo", lives in the neighbouring enclosure as he poses a potential danger to the offspring. Because the young animal first has to learn how to handle water, the water level in the bathing pool has been lowered considerably. It will gradually be raised again over time.
So far, two pygmy hippopotamus cubs have grown up in Chemnitz and now live in other zoos. There are around 380 pygmy hippos in 140 zoological institutions worldwide, including around 120 animals in 56 institutions in Europe.
Pygmy hippos are a separate animal species. They differ in anatomy, lifestyle and social behaviour from their larger cousins, the better-known hippos. They are found in the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire as well as in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. The species is highly endangered and the population in the wild is estimated at around 2500 adult individuals, with a downward trend.
Opening hours of the zoo:
9 a.m. to 7 p.m., last admission 6 p.m.