The Captivating Baby Hippo: A Charming Sight for Hanoi Tourists
The newborn hippo at Hanoi Zoo is an adorable bundle of joy that will melt the hearts of all who lay eyes on it. With its chubby cheeks, tiny tusks, and playful demeanor, this little one is sure to become a beloved member of the zoo family.
For the first time ever, a baby hippopotamus has been born naturally at the Hanoi Zoo, located in the heart of Vietnam’s capital city. Nguyen Cong Nghiep, Deputy Director of Hanoi Zoo in Ba Dinh District, shared that the pregnant mother hippo was a gift from Dai Nam Wonderland in Thu Dau Mot City, Binh Duong Province. She arrived at the Hanoi Zoo in December 2023 and, after receiving dedicated care for about eight months, gave birth to a healthy male calf on July 23, 2024.
Despite their physical resemblance to pigs and other even-toed ungulates, hippos are actually more closely related to cetaceans such as whales, dolphins, and porpoises. This surprising fact is due to their evolutionary history, as they diverged from cetaceans around 55 million years ago.
Hippopotamuses are the third-largest land mammals in the world by mass, surpassed only by elephants and rhinos. These semi-aquatic creatures can reach impressive sizes, with adult males weighing up to 1,500 kilograms and females reaching up to 1,300 kilograms.
Contrary to what one might assume from their stocky build and short legs, hippos are capable of running at speeds of up to 30 km/h. This ability, along with their powerful jaws and aggressive nature, makes them formidable creatures in their natural habitat.
 The baby hippopotamus, affectionately named “Hanoi Junior,” has already captured the hearts of many through viral videos on social media. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi TimesÂ
 Hanoi Junior, born on July 23, 2024, is already becoming a beloved member of the Hanoi Zoo family.
 The mother-calf pair spend most of their time in the water, with the protective mother keeping a close eye on her young.
 They emerge from the water only for their meals, with the mother ensuring her calf’s nutritional needs are met.
 While the baby hippo is still too young for solid food, the mother is provided with a special diet of young rice to support her nursing needs.
 The dedicated staff at Hanoi Zoo ensures that both mother and baby receive the best care, keeping a close eye on their health and well-being.
Hanoi Junior inherits his mother’s shy nature and tends to stay close to her side, forming an unbreakable bond.
With his adorable looks and shy demeanor, Hanoi Junior has become the newest attraction at the zoo, captivating visitors of all ages.
 The birth of Hanoi Junior marks a significant event for the zoo and the city, as visitors flock to catch a glimpse of the newest addition, making him the brightest star at Hanoi Zoo.
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