Metro Richmond Zoo Welcomed Pygmy Hippo Calf
A rare female pygmy hippopotamus calf was born at the zoo on December 6 to parents Iris and Corwin.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Wildlife
The Metro Richmond Zoo announced the birth of a female pygmy hippopotamus calf, marking the second such birth in Virginia. Born on December 6, the calf is a significant addition for a species listed as endangered.
Why it matters
The pygmy hippopotamus is currently listed as endangered, with fewer than 2,500 adults remaining in their native West Africa. This birth represents a vital contribution to the conservation of a species facing severe population declines in the wild.
The calf weighed 16 pounds at three days old and grew to 24.2 pounds by ten days of age. An adult pygmy hippopotamus typically reaches a maximum weight of 600 pounds.
The players
Metro Richmond Zoo
This is a zoological facility in Virginia that manages animal conservation programs and public educational exhibits.
Iris
Iris is one of the adult pygmy hippopotamuses at the Metro Richmond Zoo and the mother of the newborn calf.
Corwin
Corwin is one of the adult pygmy hippopotamuses at the Metro Richmond Zoo and the father of the newborn calf.
The details
The calf, born to parents Iris and Corwin, is only the second pygmy hippo to be born within the state of Virginia. The zoo is currently managing the animal as part of its efforts to support the survival of this West African native species.
Timeline
December 6: The pygmy hippo calf was born.
December 9: The calf weighed 16 pounds.
December 16: The calf reached a weight of 24.2 pounds.
Roadmap
The birth highlights the role that regional zoological institutions play in the global preservation of species like the pygmy hippo. This addition follows the precedent set by the first pygmy hippo calf born in Virginia, doubling the state's contribution to captive breeding efforts.
Visitors to the Metro Richmond Zoo may have the opportunity to view the calf as it grows and reaches its adult size of up to 600 pounds. Families can incorporate this development into their visits to learn more about the conservation status of endangered species.
The takeaway
Supporting zoo conservation programs is an accessible way for the public to contribute to the survival of endangered species. Readers can implement this awareness by learning about the specific threats, such as habitat loss in West Africa, that drive these species toward extinction.
Further reading
Learn more about local Wildlife conservation efforts at the Metro Richmond Zoo.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSGW Saginaw.
