Birth of Rare Pygmy Hippo in Athens Zoo

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Athens zoo welcomes the birth of a rare and endangered pygmy hippopotamus, the first in 10 years. The baby is a male, a significant event due to a lack of male pygmy hippos in captivity. Pygmy hippos are endangered, with only about 2,000-2,500 left in the wild.

Key Points

  • Pygmy hippos are native to swamps and rainforests in western Africa
  • Endangered species with only about 2,000-2,500 left in the wild
  • Male calf born on Feb. 19, weighing 15.4 pounds, with parents Lizzie and Jamal

Pros

  • Significant event as the first pygmy hippo birth in 10 years at Athens' Attica Zoological Park
  • Baby hippo is a male, which is important due to the lack of male pygmy hippos in captivity
  • Contributes to the conservation efforts of the endangered pygmy hippo species

Cons

  • Pygmy hippos are listed as an endangered species, highlighting the threats they face in the wild