This post is going a bit out of order, as it was supposed to be a part two. The first part was started in September last year (2021) just after Tucker left for Cincinnati Zoo. It's been almost done for months.
The last seven months have been a devastating time for me. I have struggled through them best I can, barely holding on a majority of the time. I've managed to write some posts, that have noted this tough time. One week ago, my emotional state changed drastically, and is now in a beautiful place.
The past week has been busy and full. Exhausting at times, but the best exhaustion. I've been feeling like I might have to energy to bat out the few posts I have left, and wrap up past issues I've needed to document. Had planned the two parts this weekend, but in light of the Zoo's announcement today, I'm fast tracking this one. You know me, I like a good scoop! And while I didn't get this done a month and a half ago when I first identified the young male who was transferring here, this is still a scoop!
I have been excited for the new arrival since first hearing about this acquisition, just after Tucker (Hippo) left. The lead-in to my part one post, was noting that I think the Zoo really missed an opportunity to create excitement within the Zoo going public (aka community), at a time when so many were bummed about Tucker's departure. A real head-shaker, that didn't happen. No matter how long (thirteen years) and how much I've written about the importance of creating a community, the Zoo just doesn't seem to get it, or they just don't care.
Today, the new installment of the Zoo's email newsletter came, not only do they FINALLY mention the acquisition of a Pygmy Hippo, but that he is here and out! I knew it was happening soon, just not when.
So, who is our new Hippo? You know I got the details, and that is the purpose of this post, at this time. The Zoo failed to mention where he came from, or his name. In my opinion so people can't learn more about him, specifically his name, which will unfortunately, most likely be changed.
According to my research, our new male Pygmy Hippo is named Akobi! He was born at San Diego Zoo, April 9, 2020 to first-time Mama Mabel. His name means "firstborn", in the native language of West Africa, where Pygmy Hippos live.
Photo from a Twitter user of Akobi and his Mama Mabel.
Link to video of Akobi's first Birthday from San Diego Zoo Facebook, followed by a screencap from video.
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