Hannah Shirley, the world's oldest known living pygmy hippopotamus, celebrated her 52nd birthday on Thursday at the San Diego Humane Society's Ramona Wildlife Center. The event featured a Hungry Hungry Hippos–themed party, where Hannah played with coloured balls and gifts.
Born in November 1973, Hannah surpassed the previous longevity record earlier this year. Pygmy hippos typically live 25 to 30 years in the wild. 'Every day with Hannah Shirley is a gift,' said Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager. 'Her playful spirit and resilience continue to amaze us.'
Hannah was rescued from a private backyard in Escondido in 2002 and now lives in a 13,000-square-foot habitat with a pond and pool. Her care includes spa-like back rubs, sprinkler showers, and prepared meals tailored to her advanced age.
'Anyone who meets Hannah falls in love with her,' said Angela Hernandez-Cusick, wildlife rehabilitation supervisor. 'She embodies the joy and connection that make caring for wildlife so rewarding.'
Pygmy hippos are native to West Africa, with most believed to live in Liberia and smaller populations in Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d'Ivoire. They are less aquatic than river hippos, with rounder heads, narrower snouts, and proportionally longer necks.
