Tampa, FL – March 11, 2026 – In an adorable and conservation-boosting surprise that is already melting hearts around the world, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park has announced the arrival of a precious newborn pygmy hippopotamus calf named Momo, born in the late evening of today.
The healthy female calf, Momo, weighs about 10 pounds and made her debut under the close watch of the zoo’s dedicated veterinary and animal care team. Her mother, Ruka, the beloved pygmy hippo who once captured global attention as a viral calf herself, delivered Momo after a seven-month gestation period. Both mother and calf are reported to be doing exceptionally well.
Zoo staff says the tiny calf has already begun nursing strongly and showing early signs of the playful behavior that pygmy hippos are known for.
A Critical Birth for an Endangered Species
The birth comes at a crucial time for the species. The pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) is one of the rarest large mammals in the world and is listed as Endangered by the IUCN.
Wild populations are estimated to be fewer than 2,500 individuals, with numbers declining due to:
- Habitat destruction
- Poaching
- Human–wildlife conflict in West Africa
Every successful birth in a managed breeding program like ZooTampa’s represents an important step toward protecting the species. The arrival of Momo also helps raise global awareness, especially as the adorable calf quickly captures public attention.
Zoo Officials Celebrate the New Arrival
“We couldn’t be more overjoyed. Little Momo arrived just in time to remind the world why we fight so hard to protect these incredible animals,” said Dr. Elena Ramirez, Director of Animal Care and Conservation.
“Momo is already stealing hearts behind the scenes, and we look forward to introducing her to the public very soon.”
Public Debut Expected Soon
For now, Momo and her mother Ruka, are bonding in a quiet private enclosure to ensure a healthy and stress-free start.
Zoo officials expect public viewing to begin in the coming weeks. Special activities are already being planned, including:
- “Meet Baby Momo” events
- Live streaming updates
- Habitat exhibits highlighting conservation work in Liberia and Sierra Leone
These initiatives are supported through ZooTampa’s conservation partnerships and international wildlife protection programs.
About ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Founded in 1909, ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a leader in wildlife care, education, and conservation. The zoo is home to thousands of animals across expansive habitats in Tampa, Florida.
Visitors can explore immersive areas such as:
- Manatee Critical Care Center
- Asian Gardens
- Primate World
- Wildlife habitats supporting endangered species conservation
The zoo actively participates in breeding and conservation programs for species including pygmy hippos, manatees, rhinos, and more.
A New Conservation Star
Baby Momo joins a growing legacy of pygmy hippo success stories at the zoo. Her mother, Ruka once captured the hearts of animal lovers worldwide, and now Momo is continuing that legacy.
Zoo officials hope her story will inspire visitors to support wildlife conservation through zoo visits, memberships, and advocacy efforts.
High-resolution photos and video footage of baby Momo are available upon request.
For interviews, media materials, or updates, contact the ZooTampa Communications team or visit zootampa.org.
About ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is located at 1101 W Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604. The zoo is dedicated to connecting people with wildlife through exceptional animal care, education, and conservation programs.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ZooTampa is consistently ranked among the top zoos in the United States.
The zoo is open daily. Visit zootampa.org for tickets, hours, and more information.
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