Edinburgh Zoo pygmy hippo Gloria gives birth just hours after pregnancy announcement
The new born pygmy hippo was welcomed into the world on July 31
Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed an adorable new arrival after pygmy hippo Gloria gave birth to a new calf just hours after her pregnancy was announced.
The youngster was born on Friday, July 31, to mum Gloria and dad Otto, with the pair now enjoying some quiet time as they care for the little one, away from the public eye.
The zoo said Gloria has been a busy mum feeding, resting and bonding with her baby while keepers give them plenty of privacy.
Jonny Appleyard, hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, 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."
Gloria is no stranger to motherhood having given birth to daughters Amara in 2021 and Haggis the internet sensation in 2024.
Less than two years ago her baby Haggis rose to fame across the globe after the pygmy hippo became a star thanks to her ‘sassy’ personality and viral videos which attracted fans from all around the world.
The birth of the little hippo came sooner than expected - on the same day the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) announced Gloria’s pregnancy.
Keepers and vets at the zoo had estimated the calf would arrive sometime in August, however the little baby couldn't wait to get out into the big world!
Mr Appleyard added: "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.”
The zoo hopes to confirm the baby calf’s gender in the next few weeks following upcoming health checks.
Visitors will have to remain patient before seeing Gloria and her latest addition, but the pair could make their public debut in the next few days. The zoo have advised visitors to keep an eye out on their social media channels for news on when the pygmy hippo house will be open.
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