Cincinnati Zoo's Premature Hippo Has First Pool Experience

A premature hippopotamus born at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens got her first pool experience on Thursday, January 26. The baby girl was born six weeks early on Tuesday.

The zoo said most hippos are born in water, but they can’t actually swim. The pool time will allow the calf to build her muscles and balance while maintaining an optimal body temperature.

The staff continues to give her 24-hour-care, which includes tube feedings, veterinarian checks and keeping her warm and moist. The calf is the first Nile hippo to be born at the zoo for 75 years. Credit: YouTube/Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens via Storyful