Visitors to catch a glimpse of Edinburgh Zoo's newborn pygmy hippo

Piper will now be able to be spotted exploring her indoor habitat with mum Gloria

Visitors can now catch a glimpse of Edinburgh Zoo’s newborn pygmy hippo.

Piper was born on July 31, the same day the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) announced mum Gloria was expecting.

The RZSS says it will now allow visitors to see the youngster as she explores her indoor habitat, following several successful two-hour trial openings.

Piper's first health check confirmed she's a girlRZSS
Piper’s first health check confirmed she’s a girl

Keepers say they’re delighted with Piper’s growing confidence and are excited for the public to meet her.

Following her health check on August 5, Jade Robertson, senior hoofstock keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “As Piper gets bigger we’ll start to see more of her personality.

“She will become more adventurous and confident spending time exploring her home while still sticking close to Gloria.”

Mum Gloria is no stranger to the spotlight, or motherhood, having given birth to viral internet sensation Haggis back in 2024.

Haggis captured hearts across the world after featuring in viral videos, and even making her way onto Saturday Night Live.

Haggis became an internet sensationRZSS
Haggis became an internet sensation

Haggis was moved to her new home at Wingham Wildlife Park in Kent last October.

Fans visiting Piper are asked to keep noise to a minimum, to help the calf remain happy and healthy.

The Hippo House will be open to all, but opening hours are subject to change with visitors advised to check on arrival.

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Last updated Aug 18th, 2026 at 11:57

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