For the first time, a baby hippopotamus has been born naturally at the Hanoi Zoo, located in the heart of the 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 zoo in December 2023 and, after receiving dedicated care for about eight months, gave birth to a male calf on July 23, 2024.
Despite their physical resemblance to pigs and other even-toed ungulates, hippos are more closely related to cetaceans such as whales, dolphins, and porpoises. This unexpected family tree diverged around 55 million years ago.
The hippopotamus is an impressive creature, ranking as the third-largest land mammal in the world by mass, after elephants and rhinos. Adult males can weigh up to 1,500 kilograms, while females reach up to 1,300 kilograms.
Despite their stocky build and short legs, these mammals are surprisingly swift and can reach speeds of up to 30 km/h, according to scientists.
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| The newborn calf has already become a social media sensation, with several viral videos spreading his fame. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times |
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| The baby boy hippopotamus, born on July 23, 2024, is already capturing hearts at Hanoi Zoo. |
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| Mother and baby hippos are semi-aquatic, spending a large part of their day in the water. |
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| They emerge from the water only for their meals, preferring to stay submerged most of the time. |
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| The baby hippo is not yet ready for solid food, while his mother enjoys a diet of young rice. |
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| The dedicated staff at Hanoi Zoo ensures that both mother and baby receive the best care. |
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| The shy baby hippo stays close to its mother’s side, capturing the hearts of visitors with its adorable demeanor. |
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| With its captivating appearance and shy nature, the baby hippopotamus has become the newest attraction at Hanoi Zoo. |
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| Visitors are thrilled by the presence of the baby hippo, and it is well on its way to becoming the star attraction at Hanoi Zoo. |
These days, people converge on walking zones and parks in the capital city of Hanoi to take part in games, go shopping or just take a stroll for fresh air and relaxation.
The capital city of Hanoi welcomed over 122,000 tourist arrivals during the first seven days of the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival which lasts from February 10-16 , according to the municipal Department of Tourism.
NDO – Hanoi Zoo, in Ba Dinh district, Hanoi, was recognised as a tourist site according to a recent decision approved by the Hanoi city People’s Committee.
The post The Captivating Baby Hippo: A Charming Sight for Hanoi Tourists appeared first on https://vietexplorer.com.
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