Edinburgh Zoo welcomes surprise arrival of pygmy hippo on same day as pregnancy reveal

Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed a new pygmy hippo calf after its mother gave birth just hours after her pregnancy was announced.

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) revealed on July 31 that their pygmy hippo pair, Otto and Gloria, were expecting once again.

But staff got an unexpected surprise when Gloria gave birth, ahead of her August due date.

The youngster is currently in the care of its mother, with the pair spending time feeding, resting and bonding.

The zoo’s pygmy hippos are no strangers to the spotlight after Gloria gave birth to internet sensation, Haggis, in 2024, which prompted an influx of visitors eager to see the adorable hippo.

Jonny Appleyard, hoofstock team leader at the zoo, had hoped for a period of calm between the pregnancy announcement and the birth, but says “nature had other ideas”.

The newborn calf has been spending time with its mother away from the public eye. RZSS

He said: “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.

“We were expecting a week or two of calm after announcing Gloria’s pregnancy , but nature had other ideas. 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, the mother and calf have been hidden from public view while the calf settles in.

Visitors can check the zoo’s social media channels for news on when the Pygmy hippo house will be open to the public.