Fiona

Born prematurely on January 24, 2017, at the Cincinnati Zoo, Fiona is a world-famous Nile hippopotamus who survived against all odds. Weighing only 29 pounds at birth, far below the normal 75–100 pounds,she became a beloved symbol of hope. Now a healthy adult, she resides with her mother Bibi, half-brother Fritz and Tucker. She celebrated her 9th birthday in 2026.

Tag: Favcourites tag
Date: March 25

Jardin Animalier Rainier III

Located on the southern flank of the Rock of Monaco, Rainier III's Zoological Gardens were established in 1954 by Prince Rainier III. The gardens are home to nearly 250 animals representing about 50 species: exotic birds, turtles, caimans, hippopotamuses, reptiles, primates and farm animals. None of the animals here were purchased! What makes Rainier III's Zoological Gardens unique is that their animals were all donated, or were abandoned or seized by customs. For nearly 35 years, the biggest draw in the one-hectare park has been the hippopotamus Pollux. The Zoological Gardens adopted Pollux in June 1986, after the Amar-Carrington circus closed down.

A souvenir from my trip to French Riviera 2024
Date: April 13

Cincinnati Zoo

From a visit at Cincinnati Zoo, Fiona Hippo eating watermelon postcard.
Fiona was he first Nile hippo imaged on ultrasound pre-natally and the first born at the zoo in 75 years, she was born prematurely and cared for with the assistance of the Cincinnati Children's Hospital. She was born six weeks premature on January 24, 2017, with a birth weight of 29 pounds (13 kg).

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is the second-oldest zoo in the United States, opening in 1875, just 14 months after the Philadelphia Zoo opened on July 1, 1874.