The Heartwarming Journey of Chive: Nashville Zoo’s Newest Red River Hog Piglet
The Nashville Zoo recently shared exciting news that warms the heart of animal lovers everywhere: the birth of a male red river hog piglet named Chive. Born on April 1, he represents not just another addition to the zoo but a remarkable story of survival and care that showcases the dedication of the zoo’s team.
Chive's birth came as a surprise to the zookeepers as his mother, Tater, who was previously observed to be pregnant through subtle behavioral changes, gave birth earlier than anticipated. This unexpected birth highlights the unpredictable nature of animal care in captivity, where each day brings new challenges.
Upon his arrival, Chive was found weak, cold, and still covered in afterbirth—conditions that could spell disaster for a newborn animal. Fortunately, the attentive veterinary team at Nashville Zoo intervened just in time. Dr. Louden Wright, the zoo veterinarian, explained, "The decision to intervene in Chive's case was made due to Tater's lack of interest in caring for him and her not allowing him to nurse." With expert care, Chive was admitted to the HCA Healthcare Veterinary Center's ICU, where he was warmed, fed, and, crucially, given a fighting chance at life.
Now, just a few weeks after his birth, Chive has grown to the size of a cantaloupe, tipping the scales at 1.02 kilograms. His transformation is nothing short of heartwarming, as he continues to thrive thanks to the diligent hand-rearing by the animal care team. Witnesses can now see Chive’s playful antics—not just within the confines of his pen but also through the live nursery camera available on the Nashville Zoo’s website.
Chive's story reminds us of the vital roles that zoos play in wildlife conservation and education. While red river hogs, native to the rainforests of West and Central Africa, are currently not endangered, their presence in zoos emphasizes the importance of preserving their natural habitats and educating the public about these remarkable creatures.
As we marvel at Chive’s growth and learn about red river hogs, one question lingers: how can we all contribute to keeping such species thriving in their natural habitats? We invite you to leave your thoughts in the comments below and share how you connect with wildlife conservation efforts.