We’ve got some news to share with you – our pair of common hippos, Lola and Hodor, are moving to a new home this June.
Both Lola and Hodor are part of an international conservation breeding programme for common hippos – a vulnerable species which ZSL is helping to protect. As part of this conservation programme, it has been recommended that they move to a new home, giving Hodor the opportunity to boost the numbers of this precious species and start his own family.
The pair will be moving to Longleat Safari Park, who are building a brand-new habitat, custom designed for common hippos. They’ll be joining some more female hippos, to form a new herd at the park.
Both Lola and Hodor were born at Whipsnade Zoo. Lola, at 21 years old, has been a household name, bringing so much joy to keepers and visitors alike. Her son, Hodor, is eight years old.
Whilst it's sad for us to say goodbye, we’re so excited for their future, knowing they’re going to a wonderful place with a new home that’s been built just for them.
We unfortunately won’t be getting more common hippos at Whipsnade Zoo, but we will be welcoming an exciting new species to the space, and we’ll share updates very soon. Our pygmy hippo, Tapon, will be staying at Whipsnade Zoo.
Please do pay us a visit before Lola and Hodor go to give them a fond farewell.