West Michigan Welcomes First-Ever Pygmy Hippo Calf at John Ball Zoo

Something big just happened in West Michigan at the John Ball Zoo, and it is a very cute addition too. The John Ball Zoo just welcomed its first-ever pygmy hippo calf.

Historic Arrival in Grand Rapids

The calf was born on September 3, and this 11-pound bundle arrived to parents Penelope and Jahari, helping mark a milestone for the zoo conservation efforts statewide here in Michigan.

It's a lot more important than it sounds too.

Why Pygmy Hippos Matter

The pygmy hippos are endangered, with less than 2,500 left currently in the wild. The new calf will help keep the species alive for longer in a more controlled space, and help maintain the genetic diversity needed to keep the species alive.

The zoo's animal care team said that mom Penelope is doing well and bonding very closely with her little one behind the scenes. The zoo staff is also watching their interactions closely to make sure they're settling in comfortably.

Mom and Baby Bonding Behind the Scenes

Baby hippos, especially pygmies, are very tiny at birth, according to WWMT. Similar to making sure humans don't roll over onto their babies in bed, that is what the zoo staff is currently doing with the pygmy’s mother right now at the zoo.

What’s Next: Live-Stream Coming Soon

The zoo is keeping things rather quiet right now, but there are updates that are coming soon. Zoo planners aim to add a live-stream camera soon, so you can watch and enjoy the latest addition to the zoo's family.

It is a great win for West Michigan, but also a reminder that even small creatures can make impacts and help keep an entire species alive with the work done at zoos across the country.