An adorable baby hippo has been born just hours after keepers announced its mum was pregnant.
The surprise pygmy hippo calf arrived on Friday (31 July) to parents Otto and Gloria at Edinburgh Zoo – the same day the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) revealed Gloria was expecting.
The youngster – whose name has yet to be revealed – is being cared for by Gloria as the pair spend their time feeding, resting and bonding together.
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Keepers had only recently revealed Gloria was expecting, saying they believed the calf would arrive sometime in August.
But the baby arrived ahead of schedule – leaving staff delighted.
It is a sibling to Haggis who hit headlines after being born two years ago, as reported by What’s The Jam.
“It has been a really exciting few days for the team and we are all delighted to see Gloria and her calf doing so well,” said Jonny Appleyard, hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo.
“Our main aim right now is to give them some private time until they show signs they are ready to meet the world.”
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Gloria is no stranger to motherhood, having previously given birth to daughters Amara in 2021 and Haggis in 2024.
Haggis went on to become an internet sensation after winning fans around the world with her “sassy side-eye” and diva personality, appearing in viral videos and even featuring on Saturday Night Live.
Jonny added: “We were expecting a week or two of calm after announcing Gloria’s pregnancy but nature had other ideas.
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“It was a real surprise to come in and find a new face tucked up with mum.
“We hope to be able to confirm the wee one’s gender following upcoming health checks.”
The birth came just hours after RZSS confirmed Gloria was expecting another calf, following a series of teaser videos on social media that had sparked speculation among fans.
At the time, veterinary staff predicted the youngster would arrive sometime in August.
Darren McGarry, head of animal care at RZSS, had said: “We are all really made up for Gloria, who is positively glowing at the minute.
“The calf will have a great start in life because Gloria is a really caring, attentive and experienced mum.
“I am chuffed for dad Otto too. His job is basically done now, but we have given him a few treats to say, ‘well done’.”
He added: “I’ve worked as an animal keeper since the eighties and spent many of those years working with pygmy hippos.
“It really warms my heart to see so many people excited about this species.
“Pygmy hippos are a very special animal, and I can tell you news like this never, ever gets old.”
For now, Gloria and her newest arrival are enjoying some well-earned peace and quiet, with visitors expected to be able to spot the pair in the coming days.
Zoo staff have advised people to check Edinburgh Zoo’s social media channels for updates on when the pygmy hippo house will reopen to visitors.
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