Even though she now almost weighs 1,000 pounds, Fiona the hippo is still growing up, a fact that became clear during the Cincinnati Zoo’s Halloween festivities this month, which featured treats for many zoo animals. While mama Bibi could crush her large pumpkin in one bite, little Fiona couldn’t handle her fun-size pumpkin and needed it cut into pieces. (via Lois M.)
Penelope, the pygmy hippo calf at the Toronto Zoo, is turning into a sassy little lady! In this just-released video, Penelope scampers around her new home and gives her mother Kindia a rebellious head shake! (via Lois M.)
Just released: A new super-fresh episode of The Fiona Show, in which we go behind the scenes with Fiona and her mother Bibi to get a look at their morning routine. At over 850 pounds, Fiona is way past her “cuddly” stage, but she still delights the care team with her cute antics, such as when she steals her mama’s breakfast. And while that’s going on, zoo staff get her outdoor enclosure ready for their morning swim. (via Lois M.)
Earlier this week, the Toronto Zoo ended its vote to name the new pygmy hippo calf born to 12-year-old Kindia last August. The zoo offered up a slate of name choices reflecting a broad range of cultural influences, and in the end the voters picked was the pleasantly pudgy-sounding Penelope! (via Lois M.)