Meet Haggis: an incredibly rare pygmy hippo born at Edinburgh Zoo

A rare pygmy hippo, named Haggis, was born at Edinburgh Zoo on October 30, marking a significant addition to the population of this endangered species. With only a few kilos, this little calf already displays a lively personality. According to Jonny Appleyard, Hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, Haggis is “doing very well so far” and his first interactions have delighted zookeepers. However, the pygmy hippo home will remain closed next month to ensure the development of the young during the critical first days of their lives.

Pygmy hippos in danger of extinction

Pygmy hippos, native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, face significant threats to their survival. With fewer than 2,500 individuals remaining in the wild, the species is currently listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat destruction and hunting are main reasons are driving their decline, particularly in countries like Liberia, where they are targeted for bushmeat. Conservation efforts are underway in various countries, and each captive birth, like that of Haggis, provides a crucial opportunity to raise awareness of the urgent need for protection.

Global interest in pygmy hippos following viral fame

The popularity of pygmy hippos increased recently when a hippo named Moo Deng from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand became a social media sensation due to his adorable appearance. Edinburgh Zoo’s new arrival Haggis now serves as something of an ambassador for her species, connecting visitors with conservation messages about the challenges pygmy hippos face in their natural habitat.

Haggis’ parents, Otto and Gloria, had already welcomed another cub, Amara, in 2021. Amara was then transferred to ZSL London Zoo as part of a European breeding initiative aimed at boosting genetic diversity within populations of pygmy hippos in captivity.