Newsroom
Listen up
We have news to announce!Welcome to the Metro Richmond Zoo’s newsroom. Here you will find copies of the zoo’s latest press releases and other announcements in a blog format.
Media Resources
If you are a member of the media please contact Taylor, our Communications Manager at [email protected] for the following:
- Schedule an interview for a story
- Access high-quality images or video
- Request to be added to our media mailing list
View our official press kit.
The zoo sends press releases to the media whenever we have significant announcements about animal births, new exhibits, or other exciting updates. You can read them below.
For more daily updates, follow us on social media.
New Pygmy Hippo Outdoor Experience
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
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
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...
Statement Regarding Positive Tests for H5 “Bird Flu” in Cranes
The Metro Richmond Zoo is partnering with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to respond to and monitor positive tests for H5 bird flu in deceased cranes. The zoo remains open, and the...
Pygmy Hippo Live Stream
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
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...
Metro Richmond Zoo in the News