From Heartbreak to Hippo Hugs The Baby Hippo Who Fell Asleep in His Rescuer’s Arms
Hippos might not be known for cuddles and taking dips in private pools, but Bumpy isn’t your average animal. Today, the tiny hippo calf is living the good life at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya, but his story started with heartbreak. He was discovered orphaned, lying next to his mother’s lifeless body, alone in the wilderness. Thanks to the loving care of his rescuers, he’s getting a fresh start. Bumpy was discovered at Oloiden Resort in Naivasha, Kenya, this May, after the Kenya Wildlife Service received multiple reports of a calf calling for help in the park. The team of animal advocates who went to help him found Bumpy nudging his dead mother, hoping she would wake up. Because hippos commonly get into territorial fights, especially when babies are involved, they believe she perished protecting him from danger. The little calf had to take a long ride after his traumatic ordeal to reach the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Nairobi Nursery. But once he arrived, he was treated to warm milk and a comfy red blanket, finally falling asleep in the arms of a caretaker.
each year. Bumpy, however, quickly bonded with his rescuers and even sat in a caretaker’s lap as they flew him to another facility.
“He is a very snuggly creature and is happiest when nestled on or against someone,” said the organization.
Since arriving at his new home, he’s been healthy and has received around-the- clock care to ensure his rehabilitation goes smoothly. When he’s not cozying up to a staffer, he spends most of his days swimming in his pool and taking long snoozes on a mattress. Young hippos stay with their mothers for years in the wild. They’re dependent on them for protection, milk, and lessons in survival. Early separations like Bumpy’s can be particularly difficult, but the rescue organization is hopeful that it can release him back into the wild once he’s older.
Until then, this once orphaned baby is going to get in every snuggle and treat he can.
While hippos are social, they are one of Africa’s most dangerous land animals. They are responsible for an estimated 500 human deaths across the continent
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