FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 12, 2020

CONTACT:
San Diego Zoo Global
Public Relations
(619) 685-3291

WEBSITE:
SanDiegoZooGlobal.org    

STATEMENT 

Hippo Born at San Diego Zoo

A new and important addition to the world’s river hippopotamus population arrived at the San Diego Zoo over the weekend. On Saturday (Feb. 8, 2020), female hippo Funani gave birth to her 13th calf. 

According to wildlife care specialists, the not-yet-named youngster appears to be healthy, alert and active. Funani has been keeping a close eye on her new calf—tucking it between herself and the side of the pool—however, the public will have a good opportunity to see both of them as they move in and out of the pool for food and exercise. Eventually, the two will be visible in their outside habitat on Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekends, while the calf’s father Otis will be viewable Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The hippopotamus is listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. The primary threats to hippos are illegal and unregulated hunting for meat and the ivory from their canine teeth, as well as habitat loss. Hippos can still be found in a number of countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

###