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Female calf born in May, nearly doubled in weight in the first days, and reinforced the importance of conserving an endangered species
A rare news in the world of animal conservation gained prominence at the Berlin Zoo in Germany. The institution recorded, at the beginning of May, the birth of a female pygmy hippopotamus calf, a species considered endangered and increasingly rare in nature.
The arrival of the little hippopotamus caught the attention of specialists, caretakers, and visitors for involving an animal of high value for international preservation programs. According to the zoo, the calf shows healthy development and remains under constant monitoring by the veterinary team.
The mother, named Debbie, directly cares for the newborn in a protected area. This behavior, according to the institution’s specialists, is part of the natural upbringing of the species, known for more discreet and solitary habits.
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Healthy growth excites veterinary team
The monitoring of the calf occurs daily since birth. Caretakers observe the weight, diet, behavior, and adaptation to the environment specially prepared for this initial phase.
In one of the weigh-ins conducted by the Berlin Zoo team, the little hippopotamus reached about 10 kilos. The number represents almost double the weight recorded in the first days of life.
This constant weight gain was seen as a positive sign by those responsible for the animal. In the first weeks, calves of this species require reinforced attention, mainly due to adaptation to the environment and dependence on maternal care.
The constant presence of Debbie also contributes to the calf’s development. The mother stays close and follows the young hippopotamus’s first movements within the reserved area.
First outdoor bath delights the public
Images released by the Berlin Zoo showed the calf exploring the space and initiating its first contacts with water. The footage quickly drew attention due to the rarity of the species and the animal’s curious behavior.
About ten days after birth, the young hippopotamus participated in the first outdoor bath. The area was specially prepared to ensure safety during this stage.
During the bath, the calf appeared playing in the water, always under the mother’s care. The scene reinforced the animal’s adaptation phase and brought the public closer to the conservation routine maintained by the zoo.
The cub was not yet available for public viewing when the images were released. Even so, she quickly became one of the main attractions of the institution on social media and in the press.
Endangered species lives in West African forests
The pygmy hippos are native to forests and swampy areas of West Africa. They are smaller than common hippos, have more reserved behavior, and tend to live more solitary lives.
The species faces significant risks in its natural environment. Estimates cited by conservation institutions indicate that fewer than 2,500 pygmy hippos remain in the wild.
Habitat loss is among the main threats. Human expansion, forest area destruction, and hunting also pressure wild populations.
This scenario makes each birth in a controlled environment an important contribution to the preservation of the species. Coordinated breeding programs help maintain genetic diversity and strengthen global conservation efforts.
Birth in Berlin reinforces the role of zoos
The birth of the cub at the Berlin Zoo represents more than a moment of enchantment for the public. The arrival of the animal also reinforces the role of zoological institutions in protecting endangered species.
Zoos participating in international conservation programs work in the care, reproduction, and monitoring of rare animals. These initiatives aim to preserve healthy populations while the species remains threatened in the wild.
The cub will continue to be monitored by the technical team during its growth. Monitoring should pay special attention to weight, behavior, and the relationship with the mother.
The case in Berlin symbolizes an important victory for the conservation of the pygmy hippo. The little cub, still in the early stages of development, has already become a powerful reminder of the urgency to protect endangered species.
What do you think should be the priority in zoos: expanding breeding programs for endangered species or investing more in the protection of natural habitats? Leave your opinion!
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