Say Hi to Hugo! John Ball Zoo’s First Baby Pygmy Hippo Is Finally on Exhibit

It’s finally time, West Michigan: we get to meet Hugo, the John Ball Zoo’s first-ever baby pygmy hippo!

Since his birth, Hugo has been spending his days behind the scenes with his mom, Penelope, learning how to be an adorable little nugget (and let’s be honest, he’s nailing it).

Now that he’s tipping the scales at over 40 pounds, he’s ready to waddle out and meet some of his new Grand Rapids friends and neighbors.

John Ball Zoo curator Tim Sampason told the media during an event on Tuesday that bringing Hugo to this point has taken a lot of care, patience, and learning for both the keepers and the hippos. At one point, the mischievous little guy even managed to sneak between the bars and escape into the keeper’s area, long after everyone thought he was too big to fit through.

“He’s definitely got the personality of a toddler” Sanderson laughed, adding that the team has worked hard to make Hugo’s habitat perfect for him and for future pygmy hippo babies.

The indoor habitat’s modular floor can now be adjusted as he grows, and this design will be able to be reused to help future generations of hippos at the zoo.

If you’re a John Ball Zoo member, you might be able to see Hugo this week if you visit, depending on crowd size. Keep in mind, Hugo is nocturnal, so he might be snoozing during your visit. (But don’t worry, that’s totally normal for a growing baby who’s gaining a few pounds each day)

We spotted him around 11 a.m., and he was wide awake and ready to play, so that might be your best bet!

The zoo is open through November 23rd this year, so make sure you stop by before the season ends to see this adorable new addition. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until spring to meet Grand Rapids’ tiniest new star, Hugo the pygmy hippo.