Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed a pygmy hippopotamus calf (Choeropsis liberiensis), born on 31 July, just days after keepers announced that mother Gloria was expecting.
The calf, born to Gloria and Otto, arrived earlier than expected, catching the animal care team by surprise. The newborn is currently spending its first days feeding, resting and bonding with its mother behind the scenes.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) had estimated that Gloria would give birth sometime during August, making the arrival an unexpected but welcome surprise.
“It has been a really exciting few days for the team and we are all delighted to see Gloria and her calf doing so well. Our main aim right now is to give them some private time until they show signs they are ready to meet the world,” said Jonny Appleyard, Hoofstock Team Leader at Edinburgh Zoo.
Gloria is already an experienced mother, having previously given birth to Amara in 2021 and Haggis in 2024, who became an internet sensation.
“We were expecting a week or two of calm after announcing Gloria’s pregnancy but nature had other ideas,” Appleyard added. “It was a real surprise to come in and find a new face tucked up with mum. We hope to be able to confirm the wee one’s gender following upcoming health checks.”
For now, Gloria and her calf will remain away from public view while they settle in. Visitors will still be able to see proud father Otto until the pair are ready to make their public debut.
The pygmy hippopotamus is native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, particularly Liberia, and is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Fewer than 2,500 individuals are believed to remain in the wild, with habitat loss representing the species’ greatest threat.
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