London Zoo's pygmy hippos explore new enclosure

Thug, the 17-year-old pygmy hippo, explores his new enclosure in London Zoo. Credit: PA Images

London Zoo's two star-attraction pygmy hippos have taken their first tentative steps into their newly finished enclosure.

The new home for Thug, 17, and Nicky, 19, in the 'Into Africa' exhibition includes:

  • Solar heated pools

  • Hand-crafted gardens

  • Round-the-clock staff to deliver a ready supply of their favorite food - watermelon.

Pygmy hippo Thug approaches a piece of watermelon in his new enclosure Credit: PA Images
Thug, the 17-year-old pygmy hippo, explores his new enclosure. Credit: PA Wire

Pygmy hippos are an endangered species and have been at the forefront of London Zoo's conservation work for a number of years.

A London Zoo spokesperson said there are only a very small number that remain in the wild.

The new exhibit will be home to hippos Thug and 19-year-old Nicky. Credit: PA Wire

Visitors to London Zoo will be able to see the two hippos enjoying their new enclosure from this weekend when it opens for the first time to the public.