Cuteness overload as baby pygmy hippo Piper explores pool in first paddle at Edinburgh Zoo
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A new baby pygmy hippo has taken her first swim at Edinburgh Zoo
Footage has emerged of Edinburgh Zoo’s new baby pygmy hippo Piper taking her first swim.
The adorable three-week-old followed mum Gloria into the pool before gaining the confidence to explore on her own.
After a lap of the pool and a tentative nibble on some driftwood Piper patiently waited by mum as she snoozed in the water. When it was time to head for dry land she made her way with a helping hand from animal team leader Jonny Appleyard.
Piper arrived unexpectedly at the zoo last earlier this month and has followed in the footsteps of her older sister Haggis—who became a viral star after arriving in 2024 before being moved to another zoo as part of a breeding programme for the endangered species.
Piper passed her first health check earlier this month with flying colours with senior hoofstock keeper Jade Roberts saying at the time: "She's still only a dot at the moment weighing just under 5.5 kilos. She will soon start piling on the pounds because her mum's milk is so rich and nutritious.
"As Piper gets bigger we'll start to see more of her personality. She will become more adventurous and confident spending time exploring her home while still sticking close to Gloria."
Visitors are asked to keep noise to a minimum when visiting Piper to help the calf and mum remain happy and healthy. The hippo house is open to all but Edinburgh Zoo recommends visitors check on arrival as opening hours are subject to change.