The Metro Richmond Zoo commemorates its 30th anniversary in 2025, celebrating three decades of growth and dedication to wildlife care, education, and conservation. What began with just 250 animals has grown into a vibrant institution on 150 acres, now home to 2,000...

New Pygmy Hippo Outdoor Experience

by wentworth | April 11, 2025 | Poppy, Press Release | 0 Comments

The zoo is thrilled to announce an exciting update to one of our favorite animal encounters. Now that Iris and Poppy have moved outdoors, we are reimagining the pygmy hippo experience to continue offering guests an immersive and unforgettable opportunity to meet our...

Poppy Makes Her Debut in the Outdoor Hippo Habitat

by wentworth | April 1, 2025 | Poppy, Press Release | 0 Comments

We’ve got positively happy news for pygmy hippo fans! The zoo is thrilled to announce that Poppy, America’s beloved pygmy hippo princess, has made her public debut in the outdoor Hippo Haven habitat. Iris and Poppy had been living in a climate-controlled indoor...

New Pygmy Hippo Experience

by wentworth | January 21, 2025 | Poppy, Press Release | 0 Comments

The zoo is thrilled to introduce a new, one-of-a-kind behind-the-scenes adventure for visitors: The Poppy Pygmy Hippo Experience. Starting January 22, guests can enjoy an up-close, personal encounter with the endangered pygmy hippo. The experience offers an incredible...

Pygmy Hippo Live Stream

by wentworth | January 13, 2025 | Poppy, Press Release | 0 Comments

You asked for it, and we listened. The zoo is excited to launch the Poppy Cam, a new live stream of our pygmy hippo duo, Iris and Poppy. The Poppy Cam lets animal lovers worldwide watch Poppy’s daily adventures in real time, offering a unique and intimate view of this...

Pygmy Hippo Name Announcement

by wentworth | January 6, 2025 | Poppy, Press Release | 0 Comments

The votes are in, and we are thrilled to announce the winning name for our little hippo... Introducing POPPY, the pygmy hippo! We received more than 116,000 total votes from hippo fans in 165 countries. With 52.8% of the vote, Poppy has earned the majority to secure a...