Apr 8, 2025
Pygmy Hippos were all the rage the past couple of months, all thanks to Moo Deng, a diva-like pygmy hippo that captivated the internet audience. People thronged to the zoos from all over the world to see her antics, and today is the day to celebrate the species.
Canva
Every year on April 8, the world celebrates Pygmy Hippo Day, started by the World Wildlife Fund. It is meant to raise awareness about these shy, rare animals, who unlike their bigger cousins, stay out of the spotlight.
Canva
Pygmy hippos are smaller than regular hippos, hence the prefix ‘pygmy’, which means small or short. While a common hippo weighs about 1,500 kg, a pygmy hippo weighs only around 200-300 kg.
Canva
Pygmy hippos are found around the world, especially in West Africa, Sierra Leone, parts of Asia and more. And most of them are in captivity in zoos and sanctuaries, instead of in the wild.
Canva
Pygmy hippos are believed to be shy creatures that do not interact with humans or animals. They prefer staying hidden in forest covers and swamps, and come out at night for food.
Canva
Unlike the larger hippos that prefer lounging in murky waters, the pygmy hippos are more land-based. They are believed to be better adapted to walking through forest floors than swimming.
Canva
Pygmy hippos are dominantly herbivores and feed on leaves, fruits, grasses, and roots. Since they’re most active at night, they quietly move through the forest looking for food.
Canva
One of the most famous pygmy hippos was Moo Deng. Moo Deng made waves back in 2024 for her adorable looks, her antics with the zoo keepers, and her behaviour.
Canva
Moo Deng became an internet sensation all thanks to her pictures and videos that spread through the internet. She could be seen chilling in buckets, screaming at the zoo keepers, running around the ponds, and much more.
Canva
Pygmy hippos are in the endangered category, and it is believed that there are less than 2500 pygmy hippos in the wild. The main threat to them is habitat destruction, farming, and illegal hunting.
Canva
To celebrate the day, most people share posts and posters about the conservation of pygmy hippos and how they are important in the wild. Some also visit zoos that house pygmy hippos and share pictures with hashtags over social media.
Canva
Thanks For Reading!
Read Next