Meet Princess Poppy: The Adorable Pygmy Hippo Captivating Crowds at Richmond Metro Zoo
As spring unfolds in Virginia, an unlikely star has emerged at the Metro Richmond Zoo—Poppy, the pygmy hippo calf, whose public debut is drawing visitors from across the country and making headlines far beyond her humble 150-acre home. For animal lovers and conservation advocates alike, Poppy isn’t just another cute face; she’s a symbol of hope for her endangered species and a heartwarming reminder of the bond between animals and people.
Poppy was born in December and has since become the darling of Richmond. At just four months old, she already tips the scales at 80 pounds—over five times her birth weight—with even faster growth expected in the coming weeks. Recently, she and her mother, Iris, traded the cozy confines of their climate-controlled indoor haven for the open air of Hippo Haven, where guests can now watch their joyful antics in a lush, naturalistic habitat. The new Pygmy Hippo Outdoor Experience gives visitors up-close access from a safe barrier zone, even offering opportunities to feed Poppy and her mom while learning about the vital conservation work needed to protect her kind.
During a recent April visit, the duo delighted schoolchildren as they swam, nibbled on fresh vegetables like sweet potatoes and broccoli, and wiggled their ears in response to their audience’s delighted cheers. Zoo fans can peer through underwater viewing windows to watch the hippos gracefully paddle and play, drawing crowds eager for a glimpse of their rare charm. "Princess Poppy," as she’s lovingly called, is quickly becoming a social media phenomenon with fans flocking from as far as New York, Texas, Alaska, and even overseas—some having helped select her name through a global online vote surpassing 100,000 participants.
The excitement isn’t just about cuteness: Poppy represents a crucial cause. Fewer than 2,500 pygmy hippos remain in the wild, native to the swamps and forests of West Africa, facing daunting threats from habitat loss and poaching. Metro Richmond Zoo’s commitment to intimate, respectful animal encounters and special events like the Run Wild Race directly support conservation efforts for pygmy hippos and other endangered wildlife.
Beyond the hippo haven, the zoo buzzes with life—from giraffes awaiting leafy treats to playful monkeys, sunbathing chimpanzees, and strutting peacocks. Yet, it’s Poppy’s wide-eyed curiosity and her mother’s gentle care that have captured the world’s imagination.
Poppy’s story prompts us to rethink both the fragility and resilience of wildlife. Will Princess Poppy’s newfound fame help spur broader efforts to save her kind? Share your thoughts on this remarkable zoo experience—or your own animal adventure—in the comments below. Don’t forget to share Poppy’s story and help raise awareness for the enchanting animals that need our protection the most!