Young pygmy hippo at Berlin Zoo recovering after likely being stepped on by mother

The dwarf hippopotamus offspring at the Berlin Zoo recently faced a health scare when it was observed to have difficulty walking due to an injury. The young pygmy hippo, born in June, was found to have a fracture in its iliac crest, which may have been caused by its mother accidentally laying on it. This news was concerning for both zookeepers and visitors who had been following the progress of the adorable baby hippo.

However, there is now a glimmer of hope as the zoo has reported that the mini hippo girl is on the road to recovery. The zookeepers are closely monitoring the young animal and are grateful for the outpouring of well wishes for its speedy recovery. The fact that the bones of young animals at this age are still soft and grow quickly bodes well for the pygmy hippo’s healing process. It is expected that the fracture will heal on its own, and the prognosis for a complete recovery is very good.

Despite the initial setback, the zoo is optimistic about the young pygmy hippopotamus’s future. The zoo had reached out to the public to help name the baby hippo, and they received over 20,000 suggestions from around the world. The naming process is still ongoing, and soon the mini hippo will have a fitting name to match its resilient spirit.

The pygmy hippopotamus is a rare and endangered species native to the rainforests of West Africa. With fewer than 2500 adult specimens left in the wild, conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this unique animal. The birth of the baby hippo at the Berlin Zoo is not only a cause for celebration but also a reminder of the importance of protecting these vulnerable species.

As the young pygmy hippopotamus continues to recover and grow stronger, visitors to the Berlin Zoo can look forward to seeing the adorable mini hippo thriving under the care of dedicated zookeepers. The daily bath routine for the little hippo, essential for its skin care, will continue to be a part of its healing process and overall well-being. With the support of the zoo staff and the public, the baby hippo is sure to overcome this challenge and grow into a healthy and happy adult pygmy hippopotamus.