HIPPO ZOO FACTS

Since the arrival of their first pygmy hippopotamus in 1927, the National Zoo has had 58 births to pygmy hippopotamuses. The National Zoo participates in the American Zoo and Aquarium Association’s Species Survival Plan for this animal.

Over the years, the National Zoo has sent pygmy hippopotamuses to zoos in Portland, Fort Worth, Chicago, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, San Antonio, Canada, Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, England, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Thailand.

Zoos World Wide: There were 178 pygmy hippopotamuses in 74 collections around the world, as of November 2003, . Most of these animals were born in zoos to zoo-born parents.

Zoo Diet: The hippopotamus feds one flake of alfalfa twice a day. This is a leguminous forage plant (like peas, beans, clover). These plants are high in protein and a good source of vitamin E and selenium. They are also eat two to three pounds (0.9 to 1.4 kg) of Low Protein Herbivore Pellets per day. These food mixures are specially prepared for large herbivores and include vitamin and mineral supplements. They receive two pounds (0.9 kg) of kale per day and apples, grapes, and bamboo as treats.

Social adaptation: They are not thought to be social animals. Although pygmy hippopotamus look relatively small and docile, they can be extremely aggressive when it comes to protecting their home or enclosure. The hippos are familiar with their daily Zoo routine and do recognize their keepers as food providers.

Winter: When temperatures are below 45 degrees F (7.2 degrees C) or there is ice on the ground, the animals are usually kept indoors.