The London Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including the captivating and unique hippos. From the iconic Obaysch, the first hippo in Europe since Roman times, to the rare and endangered pygmy hippos, the zoo’s hippo collection has a rich history and plays a crucial role in conservation efforts.
The Arrival of Obaysch: The First Hippo in Europe
In 1850, the London Zoo welcomed Obaysch, a male hippopotamus captured near an island in the Nile River. Obaysch’s arrival was a sensation, with visitor numbers at the zoo doubling that year. The hippo quickly became a favorite among visitors, known for his impressive swimming skills, which were even compared to a porpoise by Queen Victoria herself.
Obaysch’s Legacy: Breeding and Escapes
In 1854, a female hippo named Adhela joined Obaysch, and it was hoped that they would breed. However, Obaysch was known to be ferocious with human beings, and in 1860, he escaped from the hippo enclosure. The situation was handled by the newly appointed Superintendent, Abraham Dee Bartlett, who used a simple yet effective solution to lure Obaysch back into the enclosure.
Obaysch went on to father London Zoo’s first baby hippo in 1871, although it did not survive. In 1872, two more were born, with the second one, named Guy Fawkes, becoming the first captive-bred hippo to be reared by its mother.
The Pygmy Hippos of the London Zoo
Today, the London Zoo is also home to pygmy hippos, a smaller and less common species than the common hippo. Pygmy hippos are the only surviving member of their genus and are known for their love of sleep and long soaks in warm water. The zoo’s pygmy hippo enclosure has been equipped with solar panels to ensure that the hippos’ pond is always at a comfortable temperature.
Conservation Efforts for Pygmy Hippos
Unfortunately, pygmy hippos are under threat in the wild due to hunting and habitat loss. There are estimated to be fewer than 2500 mature pygmy hippos left in the wild, prompting conservation efforts by organizations like the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). The London Zoo’s pygmy hippo program plays a crucial role in these efforts, helping to raise awareness and support for the protection of this endangered species.
Quantifiable Details about the London Zoo Hippos
Here are some key facts and figures about the London Zoo’s hippo collection:
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Arrival of Obaysch | May 25, 1850 |
| Admission Prices in 1850 | 1 shilling for adults, 6 pence for children |
| First Baby Hippo Born | 1871 (did not survive) |
| First Captive-Bred Hippo Reared by Mother | Guy Fawkes (1872) |
| Estimated Mature Pygmy Hippos in the Wild | Fewer than 2500 |
| Pygmy Hippo Enclosure | Equipped with solar panels |
Conclusion
The London Zoo’s hippo collection is a testament to the zoo’s rich history and its commitment to conservation. From the iconic Obaysch to the rare and endangered pygmy hippos, these fascinating creatures continue to captivate visitors and play a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of protecting these unique animals.
References:
- London Zoo. (n.d.). Obaysch the hippo | London Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/zoo-stories/history-of-london-zoo/famous-animals-london-zoo/obaysch-hippo
- ITV. (2023, February 21). Adorable and rare pygmy hippo moves to London Zoo as part of conservation breeding programme. Retrieved from https://www.itv.com/news/london/2023-02-21/rare-pygmy-hippo-moves-to-london-zoo-as-part-of-conservation-breeding-programme
- YouTube. (2023, February 21). Endangered Pygmy Hippo “Amara” Roaming in London Zoo Is Winning The Internet Today. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fglRys-KLvw
- London Zoo. (n.d.). Pygmy hippo | London Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.londonzoo.org/whats-here/animals/pygmy-hippo