Thabo, a male pygmy hippo, made his public debut at Taipei Zoo after arriving from the Mandai Wildlife Group in Singapore on November 19 last year. Following a month-long quarantine and acclimatization period, Thabo is set to meet visitors in the African animal area tomorrow.
Affectionately nicknamed "Tang Bao" by his keepers, Thabo has shown excellent adaptability in his new indoor habitat. His keepers report that he is in good spirits with a healthy appetite and stable emotions, gradually adjusting to life at the zoo.
Thabo's arrival is part of a collaborative conservation effort involving Taipei Zoo, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This initiative aims to ensure the survival of endangered species through professional care and management in ex-situ environments. The program not only focuses on increasing population numbers through breeding but also seeks suitable pairings to preserve genetic diversity.
The name "Thabo," derived from the Nguni language of South Africa, means "joy" and "happiness." The naming reflects hopes that this young pygmy hippo will bring positivity and hope to conservation efforts, becoming a vital part of ex-situ conservation initiatives. After completing his quarantine on December 19, Thabo moved to the indoor activity area of the African animal zone where he shares space with other pygmy hippos.
Initially, Thabo faced some challenges as neighboring pygmy hippos, such as "Qiu Xiao Zhu", often displayed aggressive behavior towards him. Another neighbor, "Jiao Qiu", also reacted to Thabo's presence by vocalizing to establish dominance. However, over time, Thabo has become more confident and now approaches the barriers to observe his older companions.
This winter marks Thabo's first experience with Taiwan's colder climate. To ease his transition, all doors and windows in his indoor area have been fitted with windbreaks. His keepers have noted that while his activity levels have slightly decreased during this season, he continues to interact well with them.
During his first outing in the outdoor activity area, Thabo quickly discovered food placed by his keepers and eagerly indulged. After finishing his meal, he enjoyed splashing around in the water pool, showcasing his playful nature. Observers noted that when eating, Thabo often squints slightly as he bites into food, appearing to savor each bite—an endearing sight for all who watch him.
