The Houston Zoo has welcomed Akobi, a 477-pound male pygmy hippopotamus, as part of the AZA Species Survival Plan. Akobi, whose name means "first born" in Yoruba, is the first pygmy hippo at the zoo since the death of Silas in 2022. Pygmy hippos, smaller and more docile than common hippos, are gaining popularity, partly due to viral sensations like Moo Deng from Thailand. The zoo is also celebrating its centennial with new exhibits and awards.
An Asian elephant at Houston Zoo has received the first mRNA vaccine against the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), which is a leading cause of death among young Asian elephants in captivity. Developed by Dr. Paul Ling at Baylor College of Medicine, the vaccine aims to boost immunity in young elephants, similar to how Covid-19 vaccines work in humans. The trial vaccine was administered to Tess, a 40-year-old elephant, following a series of juvenile deaths in zoos worldwide. Researchers are monitoring Tess's health and plan to vaccinate more elephants if no side effects are observed.
A 90-year-old radiated tortoise at the Houston Zoo, Mr. Pickles, has become the father of three hatchlings after a surprise egg-laying. Radiated tortoises, which are native to the southern and southwestern parts of Madagascar, are critically endangered due to over-collection to supply the illegal pet trade. The new additions will be kept out of the public eye in the Reptile & Amphibian House until they are big enough to safely join their parents.
