Australian health reporter Natasha May shares her deep love for pygmy hippos in a recent article. She recounts how her fascination with the small, adorable creatures began over 15 years ago when she first saw a baby pygmy hippo named Monifa on the news. Despite knowing it was impossible, she jokingly begged her parents for a pygmy hippo of her own.
Years later, May was able to experience a close encounter with Monifa during a work experience placement at Taronga zoo. She describes the privilege of caring for Monifa, learning about her unique sweat that acts as a natural sunscreen, and tending to her enclosure.
May expresses her joy at seeing the world’s newfound appreciation for pygmy hippos, sparked by viral videos of another baby pygmy hippo named Moo Deng. While she acknowledges that viral moments can fade, she remains devoted to the species and often visits the pygmy hippos at Taronga on her birthday.
May’s heartfelt connection to pygmy hippos shines through in her writing, demonstrating her genuine love for these unique and fascinating creatures. Through her own experience and the recent viral fame of pygmy hippos, she hopes to spread awareness and appreciation for these special animals.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com
