We are pleased to announce that Natsume, a Pygmy Hippopotamus at Ueno Zoo, has given birth.

The birth of Pygmy Hippopotamus

Birthday: March 14, 2025 (Friday)
Number of animals: 1
Visual male
Parents: Mother: Natsume, 13 years old
Born Ueno Zoo on June 22, 2011.
　　　　　　
Father: Motomoto, 11 years old
Born July 9, 2013 at Buin Zoo (Chile)
March 20, 2023: Received from NIFREL (Osaka Prefecture) to Ueno Zoo


"Natsume" and children
(Date of photo: March 14, 2025)

background

Our zoo is working with other zoos to promote the breeding of Pygmy Hippopotamus. On March 20, 2023, we met with Suita City, Osaka Prefecture. NIFREL We have acquired a male named "Motomoto" through a breeding loan (*).

In late August 2024, the two hippos were placed together for breeding purposes, and multiple matings were observed. An ultrasound examination on February 17, 2025, revealed a shadow believed to be a fetus, so preparations for the birth were made. Labor began around 9:00 a.m. on March 14, and the baby was safely born at 9:25 a.m. This is the first birth of Pygmy Hippopotamus at Ueno Zoo in 13 years, since the birth of the mother, Natsume, in June 2011.

※About breeding loans
This is an animal loan agreement for the purpose of breeding. By transferring animals between zoos, the purpose is to form new pairs and contribute to breeding.

Current situation

Nursing behavior was observed around 3:00 PM on Friday, March 14th. The mother is calm, and both mother and child are doing well. The baby's weight was measured at around 9:00 AM on Saturday, March 15th, and was 5.94 kg.

About the release

We will inform you of the release date as soon as it is decided.

Current status of animal care at our zoo (as of March 18, 2025)

4 individuals (2 males, 2 females) *This includes the offspring born this time.

Domestic breeding situation (as of December 31, 2023)

5 zoos/aquariums, 13 animals (4 males, 9 females)
Source: 2023 Pygmy Hippopotamus Domestic Pedigree Registry [Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums]

(March 18, 2025)