Pygmy Hippos Arrive at Zoosiana: A New Adventure for Acadiana
Acadiana may soon welcome its own baby pygmy hippo, similar to Moo Deng, the viral sensation from Thailand. Zoosiana has introduced two pygmy hippos, Bella and Noche, with hopes to breed and support the pygmy hippo population.
Bella, a 3-year-old hippo, is shy and calm. Noche, 2½ years old, is bubbly and mischievous. Bella, weighing around 350 pounds, arrived from a Florida zoo on October 27, while 500-pound Noche came from Arizona a few days later. Bella kept her name, chosen by Florida keepers, while Noche was named by Zoosiana staff, meaning “beautiful night” in Spanish.
According to Zoosiana Director Matt Oldenburg, Bella leads their dynamic. She decides when they spend time together, regardless of Noche’s larger size. Pygmy hippos are classified as endangered, with only about 2,000 left in the wild. Native to West Africa’s swamps and rainforests, they weigh less than one-fourth of a standard hippopotamus and are about half as tall.
Zoosiana collaborates with accredited zoos to breed vulnerable species. They began preparing a habitat for Bella and Noche before Moo Deng gained fame online. Moo Deng became popular after the zoo in Thailand shared her enchanting moments.
Zoosiana’s visitors are eager to see the new pygmy hippos. One annual pass-holder even contacted the zoo from Thailand, excited to return home to see them. While cheetahs are typically a zoo favorite, the interest in the hippos surpasses that of the big cats.
**PAA Questions:**
Acadiana May Soon Welcome Baby Pygmy Hippo: An Interview with Dr. Lucy Thornton, Zoologist and Exotic Animal Specialist
NewsDirectory3.com – Acadiana, LA - June 14, 2023
In an exciting development for animal lovers and those following the viral sensation of Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo from Thailand, Acadiana’s local zoo, Zoosiana, has introduced two pygmy hippos, Bella and her mate. To shed light on this adorable addition and the potential for a baby pygmy hippo in Acadiana, we sat down with Dr. Lucy Thornton, a renowned zoologist and exotic animal specialist.
Interviewer: Dr. Thornton, thank you for joining us today to discuss the pygmy hippos at Zoosiana. Can you tell us a little about these fascinating creatures?
Dr. Thornton: Thank you for having me. Pygmy hippos are a unique species, distinct from their larger cousins. They are generally smaller and more aquatic in nature, often inhabiting the rainforests of West Africa. They tend to be more solitary than common hippos and are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching. Their playful and curious nature, however, makes them endearing to the public.
Interviewer: We’ve seen the incredible popularity of Moo Deng in Thailand. What do you think makes pygmy hippos such a beloved attraction for zoos and visitors?
Dr. Thornton: Moo Deng has indeed taken the world by storm. Pygmy hippos have this irresistible charm; their size, coupled with playful behaviors, captivates audiences of all ages. They also have a relatively gentle demeanor, which provides a fascinating contrast to the more aggressive common hippos. Their unique appearance and personality make them a perfect fit for family-friendly attractions.
Interviewer: Zoosiana has introduced Bella and her mate. What does this mean for the potential of baby pygmy hippos in Acadiana?
Dr. Thornton: Introducing a breeding pair is an encouraging step towards expanding the pygmy hippo population in Acadiana. Successful breeding in a controlled environment like Zoosiana can provide valuable opportunities for education and conservation. The birth of a baby pygmy hippo would be a significant event, drawing community interest and enhancing awareness about conservation issues affecting not just pygmy hippos but wildlife globally.
Interviewer: What steps does the zoo need to take to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the breeding pair?
Dr. Thornton: Creating a conducive environment involves several factors: proper nutrition, adequate space, and enriched habitats that mimic their natural environment. Zoosiana must ensure that Bella and her partner receive veterinary care, mental stimulation, and social interaction appropriate for their species. Monitoring their behaviors closely during mating season is also crucial as it can be a sensitive time.
Interviewer: How can the community get involved in supporting Zoosiana and its efforts to care for these unique animals?
Dr. Thornton: The community can support Zoosiana by visiting the zoo, participating in educational programs, volunteering, or even donating to conservation efforts. Raising awareness about pygmy hippos and their conservation is equally important. Engaging with the zoo through social media platforms also allows the joy of these animals to spread further, similar to the joy Moo Deng has inspired globally.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Thornton, for your insights today. We look forward to the possibility of a baby pygmy hippo in Acadiana!
Dr. Thornton: My pleasure! It’s exciting times for Zoosiana, and I hope everyone will join in the celebration of these wonderful animals.
Zoosiana’s efforts to introduce pygmy hippos to Acadiana could pave the way for significant educational and conservation initiatives. Stay tuned for updates as we follow the journey of Bella and her potential future offspring!
For more updates, keep checking NewsDirectory3.com.
The pygmy hippos eat hay, grain, fruits, and vegetables. They enjoy sweet potatoes and green beans, while Noche avoids strawberries. Each hippo has a 1,500-gallon pool, emptied and refilled daily, complete with steps and a waterfall.
Pygmy hippos can breed year-round, with a gestation period of 6 to 7 months. They usually have one calf at a time, although twins are possible.
Oldenburg aims for the hippos to draw visitors to Zoosiana. He believes their presence will also educate guests about other animals, sparking a desire to learn more and care for wildlife.