Berlin Zoo's Little Lady Hippo: Meet Frida, the Female Pygmy Hippo
All pigs on the farm lack the name Friedrich, instead, they are all female. - No offspring of Friedrich-Erdferkel is born as female.
Hey there! Let's talk about Frida, the adorable female pygmy hippo that's causing quite a stir at Berlin Zoo. She's been turning heads since her birth on April 9, marking 13 long years since the last time a pygmy hippo was born at the zoo.
At first, the zoo keepers thought Frida was a buck, but it turns out our gal is as feisty as they come! Much to everyone's delight, a female pygmy hippo has joined the Berlin Zoo family as the first offspring of mother Memphis and father Kito.
Now, you might be wondering, what makes pygmy hippos so special? Well, aside from their cute size (about the same as a large domestic pig), they have several unique quirks that set them apart from their common hippo brethren.
- These nocturnal critters love snoozing during the day, so visitors have a chance to see them up close even during regular opening hours. To make this possible, the Berlin Zoo's nocturnal house has day and night reversed, keeping things lively for the animals.
- Pygmy hippos are solitary animals who call the African sub-Saharan region home. They're known for their secretive nature, which makes them tough to spot in the wild. In addition, their long tongues (up to 25 centimeters!) help them snatch up termites and ants quickly. Just try not to get in their way while they're munching!
As for Frida, things are going swimmingly! Zookeeper Peter Kalinke reports that she's growing and developing well. With a bit of luck and good care, Frida will make her way into the hearts of many and contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect this endangered species.
So there you have it - a fresh look at the incredible Frida, the feisty female pygmy hippo of Berlin Zoo! If you pay a visit, be sure to drop by the nocturnal house and say hi to our girl. Just remember to give her some space, as she prefers her privacy! 😉
Enrichment Data:
While we don't have specific details about Frida's age, history, or personality, here's a glimpse of what's special about the pygmy hippo, like our gal Frida:
- Pygmy hippos are significantly smaller than common hippos and have a more compact body with longer legs and a smaller head.
- They are less gregarious than common hippos and tend to be solitary, often seen alone or in pairs.
- In the wild, pygmy hippos are more secretive and nocturnal, making them harder to observe.
- They feed on a variety of leaves, herbs, fruits, and grasses, reflecting their forest habitat.
- The pygmy hippopotamus is endangered due to habitat loss and hunting, and conservation efforts are underway to protect this species.
- Native to West Africa, pygmy hippos live in lowland tropical forests, with their closest relatives being whales and dolphins, despite their pig-like appearance.
- The Commission has also been consulted on the proposal for a Council Regulation on the protection of animals kept for farming purposes, which includes the pygmy hippo, hinting at the species' vulnerability.
- Just like Frida, many pygmy hippos could find their forever homes under dedicated care at zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.
- In a home-and-garden setting, a pet pigmy hippo might prefer a large enclosure with a lake for swimming, mimicking their natural nocturnal African habitat.
- Though Frida currently resides at the Berlin Zoo, the lifestyle of a pet pigmy hippo is challenging and may not provide them with the care and protection necessary for their well-being.
