News Summary
An 11-pound pygmy hippo calf was born at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, marking an important step in conservation efforts. This calf is the first offspring for mother Penelope and father Jahari. Currently feeding on mother’s milk, the calf will soon begin a vegetarian diet. With pygmy hippos classified as endangered, this birth is vital for the species’ survival. A gender reveal event will be held on September 11, and educational opportunities are available for visitors to promote conservation awareness.
Grand Rapids – An 11-pound pygmy hippo calf was born at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on September 3, 2025, marking a significant moment for conservation efforts. The birth took place around 9:20 PM and is the first calf for mother Penelope and father Jahari. The gender of the calf has not yet been disclosed. At this stage, the calf is exclusively feeding on Penelope’s milk and is expected to transition to her vegetarian diet, primarily consisting of leafy greens, in the coming months.
Pygmy hippos typically weigh between 7.5 to 14 pounds at birth and usually grow to weigh around 350 to 600 pounds as adults, reaching heights of about 2.5 to 3 feet. This newly born calf represents a positive development for the pygmy hippo species, which is currently classified as endangered, with an estimated fewer than 2,500 individuals remaining in the wild.
John Ball Zoo plays a vital role in the conservation of pygmy hippos as part of the Species Survival Plan organized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This program aims to bolster the population of endangered species through responsible breeding and habitat management. The zoo houses two suitable habitats for pygmy hippos; however, the animals will be kept indoors during colder months for their comfort and safety.
Details About the Newborn Hippo
Mother Penelope is 7 years old, while father Jahari is 10 years old, both of which are considered prime breeding ages. Following the Species Survival Plan guidelines, Penelope and her calf will remain together for at least one year to foster bonding and ensure the calf’s proper growth and development.
To celebrate the birth of the calf, a gender reveal event has been scheduled for September 11, 2025, at 11:30 AM. Animal care teams at the zoo are carefully monitoring the health and interactions between Penelope and her calf to ensure a strong mother-offspring bond. Visitors to the zoo are encouraged to watch the calf’s growth through a live stream available on the zoo’s website, fostering an interactive experience for all.
Visitor Opportunities and Educational Benefits
Grand Rapids Community College students can take advantage of free entry to John Ball Zoo with a RaiderCard and GoSeeGR pass, promoting educational and conservation awareness among local youth. The zoo serves as a valuable resource for visitors to connect with endangered species and learn about ongoing conservation efforts.
Historical Context of Pygmy Hippos in America
The lineage of this baby hippo is noteworthy, tracing back to Billy, a pygmy hippo that was gifted to President Calvin Coolidge in 1927. This connection reflects the historical significance of this species in American zoos and underscores the importance of their continued conservation.
Encouraging Conservation Awareness
Pygmy hippos are often solitary, but they can form small family groups when the circumstances allow. The birth of this calf at John Ball Zoo not only contributes to the pygmy hippo population but also serves to raise awareness about the challenges faced by this endangered species. Through educational programs and direct interactions, visitors are encouraged to actively participate in conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to see these incredible animals.
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Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
