Franklin Park Zoo Celebrates Arrival of Rare Baby Pygmy Hippo

Boston, MA — March 25, 2026 — Franklin Park Zoo has quietly welcomed a very special new arrival that is already capturing hearts behind the scenes. A baby pygmy hippopotamus, named Nefertiti and affectionately called “Nefe,” was born earlier this week to the zoo’s beloved resident, Cleopatra.

The newborn calf, weighing just under 14 pounds, is small but strong. According to early reports, Nefe is healthy, feeding well, and staying close to her mother. Cleopatra has been attentive and protective, rarely leaving her baby’s side during these first important days.

Cleopatra, often known as Cleo, is one of the most recognized animals at the zoo. She gained widespread attention in 2020 when she gave birth to Ptolemy, marking the first pygmy hippo birth in the zoo’s history. Now, several years later, she has once again added to that legacy with the arrival of Nefe.

Visitors who have seen Cleopatra in the past know her for her calm nature and unique appearance. Whether relaxing in the water or feeding on leafy branches, she has always been a highlight of the Tropical Forest exhibit. Her gentle personality makes her especially well-suited for motherhood.

The zoo follows a careful and quiet approach when it comes to pregnancies, especially with sensitive species like pygmy hippos. These animals prefer solitude and can become stressed if exposed to too much attention. For this reason, staff members do not publicly share pregnancy news until the baby is safely born and stable.

Despite these precautions, the news of Nefe’s birth spread earlier than planned after a photo of the newborn began circulating privately. The image quickly drew attention, leading to increased curiosity about the zoo’s newest addition. However, officials have remained cautious and have not yet released a full public statement.

A spokesperson confirmed that the zoo is aware of the situation and will share official updates when appropriate. For now, the main priority remains the well-being of Cleopatra and her calf.

The birth of Nefe is particularly important because pygmy hippos are considered endangered. Native to the forests and wetlands of West Africa, their population in the wild is estimated to be fewer than 2,500. Habitat loss and human activity continue to threaten their survival.

Unlike their larger relatives, pygmy hippos are much smaller, usually weighing between 400 and 600 pounds as adults. They have a more compact body, webbed feet, and produce a special secretion on their skin that helps protect them from the sun.

Each successful birth plays a valuable role in conservation efforts. Nefe is part of a larger breeding program supported by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which aims to maintain a healthy and sustainable population of endangered species.

With her arrival, the zoo now has its largest pygmy hippo group ever. Nefe joins her father Inocencio and her older brother Ptolemy, creating a family of four.

Although the newborn is not yet available for public viewing, zoo staff are preparing for a special introduction event. Visitors are expected to meet Nefe in early April, once she is stronger and ready to explore her surroundings.

Until then, Cleopatra and her baby will remain in a private space, allowing them to bond without disturbance. The rest of the family will continue to appear in their usual exhibit areas.

Nefe’s arrival has already brought excitement and joy to those who have seen her. It is only a matter of time before she becomes one of Boston’s most loved animal stars.

You May Also Be Interested In

• Paul Smith’s College Sustains New Student Enrollment Gains Amid Regional Enrollment Rate Drop
• Jack Link's® and Meat Church BBQ Deliver the Perfect Blend of Protein and Bold Flavor
• NEW ERA UNVEILS HEADWEAR AND APPAREL COLLABORATION WITH TEAM FIFTY5, BY CARLOS SAINZ