Earlier this week, we did an exclusive on London Zoo and during our visit we had the luck to meet a new, rare baby hippopotamus that we know is destined for fame – This baby pygmy hippo was born with a defect that looks like a permanent grin and she’s won the staff and our hearts already, and after some medical examinations she is expected to make a series of controlled public appearances in the coming weeks, before being gradually introduced to the main enclosure later in March.
Joy was born with a slightly upturned lip line, a harmless anatomical quirk that creates a constant facial expression as though she’s always grinning. Aside from the smile, Joy is a healthy, chubby pygmy hippo that has absolutely captivated us. Joy has the opportunity to be an inspiration for everybody, by turning a defect into a special talent.
The name Joy was chosen by her care team to reflect her bright, uplifting presence something staff say was clear from the very beginning. Pygmy hippos are classified as endangered in the wild, making every birth an important milestone for conservation efforts.
Native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, these smaller relatives of the common hippo are elusive and rarely seen in their natural habitat. Conservation breeding programmes in zoos like London play a key role in protecting the species for future generations.
Keepers say Joy has already shown a calm and curious personality, as of now staying close to her mother while beginning to explore her surroundings.
After a short bonding period behind the scenes, Joy will make her full integration into the main enclosure in March when visitors will be able to see her for the first time in her habitat.
Zoo staff expect high interest from the public, with many already eager to catch a glimpse of the “always smiling” Joy. For the opportunity to see Joy at anytime use this link to purchase a season ticket at a rate of just 105 pounds;
https://www.londonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/london-zoo-membership
Press Office – Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 (0)20 7449 6352
