Hippo Baby Born 6 Weeks Premature Getting Care - Cincinnati Zoo
Seventeen-year-old hippo Bibi gave birth early this morning to the first Nile hippo born at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in 75 years. The calf, a female, was not expected until March and is receiving critical care from vet and nursery staff since the premature baby was not able to stand to nurse from mom. The baby weighs 29 pounds, which is well below average (50-120 lbs) for this species.
When Bibi showed signs of labor late yesterday afternoon, Zoo staff performed an ultrasound that showed a major shift in the baby and confirmed that it was on the way. During the procedure, keepers were able to collect milk from her. Vets and animal care staff are providing round-the-clock intensive care for the baby in close proximity to Bibi and Henry, the 35-year-old father of the calf. The team is not sure how long it will take to get the premature calf on her feet. That developmental milestone must be reached before she can be reunited with Bibi.
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