The world’s oldest living hippo celebrated a remarkable milestone as she turned 52 years old recently. Hannah Shirley, a pygmy hippopotamus, marked her birthday in style at the San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Wildlife Center with a “Hungry, Hungry Hippos” themed party. The celebration was filled with joy as the rescue staff decorated Hannah’s enclosure with floating fruit and colourful streamers, inspired by the popular children’s game.
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The birthday party was attended by team members from the San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife division, who have been caring for Hannah for over two decades. Supporters and guests joined in to witness Hannah exploring her special treats and gift boxes, creating heartwarming moments. Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager at San Diego Humane Society, expressed that every day with Hannah is a gift, highlighting her playful spirit and resilience even at 52 years old.
Born on November 22, 1973, Hannah has surpassed the average lifespan of pygmy hippos in the wild, which is typically between 25 and 30 years. Rescued from a private backyard in Escondido, California in 2002, she has been living safely at the Ramona Wildlife Center ever since. The staff at the center have tailored her care routine to support her advanced age, ensuring she has a spacious habitat with amenities like a pond and pool to keep her comfortable.
Hannah’s care team provides her with daily “spa treatments” that include gentle back rubs, sprinkler showers, and specially prepared meals designed to meet the needs of a senior hippo. Angela Hernandez-Cusick, wildlife rehabilitation supervisor at San Diego Humane Society, mentioned that anyone who meets Hannah falls in love with her, highlighting the joy and connection she brings to those caring for her. The bond between Hannah and her caregivers is truly special and heartening to witness.
The celebration of Hannah’s 52nd birthday is not only a momentous occasion for the San Diego Humane Society but also a testament to the exceptional care and dedication shown towards the world’s oldest known pygmy hippopotamus. The longevity and wellbeing of Hannah serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts for endangered species like pygmy hippos. The love and care showered on Hannah reflect the commitment of the staff at the Ramona Wildlife Center to provide a nurturing environment for the animals under their care.
As Hannah continues to defy the odds and thrive at an age well beyond her wild counterparts, she serves as a symbol of hope for conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. Her story is a reminder of the resilience and beauty of nature, and the profound impact that compassionate care can have on the lives of animals. The celebration of Hannah’s birthday is not just a party for one hippo but a celebration of life, love, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.