Meet Obi! John Ball Zoo's Beloved Baby Pygmy Hippo Receives Its Official Name

Excitement is bubbling at the John Ball Zoo as their adorable baby pygmy hippo finally has a name! The charming male calf, born on October 10th, has officially been christened Obi, a name that was chosen by the public through an engaging online poll.

Obi, meaning 'heart' in the Igbo language, was a clear favorite among the thousands of votes cast, beating out other endearing options.

This naming process not only gave the community a chance to connect with the zoo's newest resident but also underscored the critical conservation efforts dedicated to this endangered species.

The arrival of Obi is a momentous occasion for the John Ball Zoo and for the global pygmy hippo population.

Pygmy hippos are a rare and elusive species native to the forests and swamps of West Africa. Facing severe threats from habitat loss and poaching, their numbers in the wild are critically low, making every birth in captivity a vital contribution to their survival.

Obi's parents, Jahari and Daisy, are part of a Species Survival Plan (SSP) program, which is a cooperative effort among zoos to manage and conserve threatened and endangered species.

The SSP aims to maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of animals, ensuring a future for species like the pygmy hippo.

Since his birth, Obi has been thriving under the watchful eyes of his mother and the dedicated zoo staff. Visitors have had the joy of watching him grow, explore his habitat, and exhibit the natural behaviors that make pygmy hippos so unique.

His playful antics and innocent curiosity have already captured the hearts of many.

The John Ball Zoo encourages everyone to come and visit Obi, learn more about pygmy hippos, and understand the importance of conservation. By supporting the zoo, visitors contribute directly to programs that protect endangered animals and their habitats worldwide, ensuring that future generations can also marvel at creatures as special as Obi.