Toni, the young and beloved pygmy hippopotamus born at Berlin Zoo on June 3, 2024, is set to move to Mulhouse Zoo in France as part of the European Endangered Species Program (EEP), a conservation breeding effort aimed at preserving endangered species in captivity.
Since her birth, Toni has captured the hearts of zoo visitors and social media followers, with Berlin Zoo’s Instagram following soaring from 125,000 to 254,000 thanks to her charm. Named after Berlin-born German soccer star Antonio Rüdiger, who accepted the role of her honorary sponsor, Toni has become a symbol of hope for her endangered species.
To give fans a chance to say farewell, Berlin Zoo has organized “Toni Time,” a week-long series of events from August 18 to 24, where visitors can see the young hippo in action, get photos with her, and witness special treats like her favorite peanuts or a shower ritual.
In preparation for her journey, Toni has undergone “crate training” to adjust to her transport crate and has been spending more time alone, reflecting the solitary nature of pygmy hippos in the wild. These creatures are native to the forests and swamps of West Africa and are classified as endangered, with fewer than 2,500 remaining in the wild due to habitat loss and poaching.
Berlin Zoo Director Andreas Knieriem praised Toni as a powerful ambassador for species conservation, highlighting her ability to engage the public and raise awareness. The hope is that Toni will continue this role in Mulhouse and contribute to the species' survival through breeding.
Toni’s transition to Mulhouse symbolizes a shared international commitment to protecting endangered species and ensures the continuation of vital conservation efforts for pygmy hippos across Europe and beyond.