Meet Poppy, the adorable baby pygmy hippo that has captured everyone’s hearts! Poppy, born on December 9, 2024, is rapidly winning hearts at the Metro Richmond Zoo, Virginia. With her adorable big eyes and lively spirit, she’s charming everyone who visits and shining a light on the critically endangered pygmy hippo species.
A Special Birth for a Special Species
Poppy’s arrival is a big deal, not just for the zoo but for the pygmy hippo population in general. With fewer than 2,500 left in the wild, these animals are at risk, making every birth significant. Poppy is the third calf of Iris and Corwin, the zoo’s beloved pygmy hippo parents. But what makes Poppy’s birth extra special is that it was Iris’s first-time giving birth on land, which is pretty rare for pygmy hippos. Typically, they give birth in water. This small but meaningful detail made Poppy’s birth all the more exciting for the zoo staff.
As cute as Poppy is, her arrival also serves as a reminder of how important it is to protect species like the pygmy hippo before they disappear altogether.
Poppy’s Big Debut at Hippo Haven
After a delightful few months indoors, Poppy finally ventured into the great outdoors on March 28, 2025, making her grand entrance into the outdoor Hippo Haven habitat. Poppy and her mom, Iris, relished the lovely spring weather, pausing to stretch their legs and appreciate the marvels of nature. The Hippo Haven habitat features a generous pool that allows the hippos to play and swim, fostering an optimal setting for their well-being and comfort.
For those excited to meet Poppy, the zoo offers an underwater viewing window, where guests can watch the hippos swim by with elegance. This is a one-of-a-kind chance to get up close and personal with them.
Poppy’s Growing Fame and Role in Conservation
Poppy’s popularity on social media is growing quickly. She has enthralled everyone in her vicinity since arriving, and her endearing images and videos have quickly gone viral. After inviting people to participate in the pleasure of naming her, the zoo received an incredible 116,000 votes from all across the world! Beyond only her adorable looks, Poppy is a force to be reckoned with in raising awareness of her breed. Her increasing social media following is drawing attention to the pygmy hippo’s endangered status and the pressing need for their protection.
The Poppy Pygmy Hippo Experience
If you’ve been captivated by Poppy from a distance and are eager to meet her face-to-face, the Metro Richmond Zoo provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience just for you. Experience the magic of the Poppy Pygmy Hippo Encounter, where you can connect with Poppy and Iris, discover fascinating facts about pygmy hippos, and have the unique opportunity to feed them. This is a unique chance for individuals eager to engage with these remarkable creatures. For just $175 per person, this is a unique opportunity to engage with Poppy and contribute to the well-being of her species.
Come Meet Poppy and Help Save Pygmy Hippos
Poppy’s time at the Metro Richmond Zoo is about so much more than just how cute she is—she’s making a real impact. By visiting Poppy, supporting her, and learning more about the pygmy hippo’s endangered status, you’re helping raise awareness for this species. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering her, meeting Poppy in person is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.
So, if you’re in the area or planning a trip to Richmond, don’t forget to visit the zoo and say hello to Poppy. Trust us, she’s as sweet as they come!
