John Ball Zoo Reveals Name of Its First Baby Pygmy Hippo

The John Ball Zoo has finally shared the name of its most adorable new resident, and it’s already winning hearts online. Meet Hugo, the zoo’s first-ever pygmy hippo calf, born on September 3.

After a week long public naming contest with voters choosing between Hugo, Blitz, and Sapo, the zoo made it official Friday morning. “His name means smart and spirited, just like we expect him to be,” the zoo said in a Facebook post.

It didn’t take long for fans to fall in love with the little guy, or for the internet to turn him into a local celebrity. The zoo’s announcement post racked up thousands of likes and hundreds of comments, with one line that summed up the mood perfectly: “Everywhere Hugo, I go.”

For now, Hugo and Penelope are spending time behind the scenes while he gets used to his surroundings and bonds with mom. The John Ball Zoo staff say they expect him to make his public debut in late October, so it won't be too long until you can see him for yourself.

Until then, you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on the John Ball Zoo’s social media pages, because if there’s one thing clear already, it’s that Hugo loves the camera.

Hugo was born to parents Penelope and Jahari, who are part of the Species Survival Plan, which is a program that helps zoos across North America protect endangered animals. He’s not just a social media star, he’s also a tiny little ambassador to the change that happens right here in Grand Rapids.