Pygmy Hippo "Thabo" Dies After Just Four Months in Taiwan; Cause of Death Revealed

Thabo, a two-year-old pygmy hippopotamus who arrived at Taipei Zoo from Singapore last November, sadly passed away today. According to zoo officials, Thabo developed a small wound on the side of his right foot last month, which led to multiple abscesses forming on his body. Despite immediate treatment, Thabo's timid nature made him refuse medication and wound cleaning, exacerbating his condition due to picky eating and an inability to adapt to the local climate. Ultimately, he succumbed to infection and malnutrition.

Thabo arrived in Taiwan in November 2024 as part of a genetic diversity program. After completing a month-long quarantine, he was moved to the African Animal Area. Due to his cautious and timid personality, combined with being a picky eater, zookeepers gradually helped him adjust. However, on February 11, a small wound was discovered on his right foot, prompting oral medication, which Thabo consistently refused due to his sensitivity to the smell of medicine. He also avoided wound cleaning procedures, leading to the development of multiple abscesses.

Despite efforts to vary his diet to boost his energy and strength, Thabo's appetite did not improve, and his body grew weaker. The harsh winter temperatures and large day-night temperature fluctuations further complicated his treatment. On March 9, a 24-hour emergency intensive care team was assembled, but Thabo's condition continued to deteriorate, with poor blood test results showing high white blood cell and muscle indices, low blood sugar, and rising liver and kidney indices. Unfortunately, he passed away early this morning.

An autopsy conducted by the National Taiwan University School of Veterinary Medicine revealed that Thabo's malnutrition, combined with circulatory issues and infection, led to his declining health. The zoo acknowledged the challenges in treating large animals, especially those that cannot communicate like humans and often hide their weaknesses. Despite this setback, the zoo will continue to investigate the cause of Thabo's infection and review its care protocols to improve future practices.

The exchange of pygmy hippos is part of a long-term effort to maintain genetic diversity, and such collaborations between zoos and conservation institutions are crucial for preserving endangered species globally. Despite Thabo's untimely death, these conservation efforts will continue.