At a Glance
- Fiona turned 9 on January 24, 2024.
- The zoo hosted an indoor party because of a snowstorm.
- Fiona enjoyed a watermelon and a cake made of fruit.
- Why it matters: The event highlights animal care and public engagement at the Cincinnati Zoo.
The Cincinnati Zoo announced that its beloved hippo, Fiona, celebrated her ninth birthday on January 24, 2024. A snowstorm kept visitors indoors, so staff brought the festivities to her enclosure, ensuring the hippo could still enjoy a special day.
Birthday Celebration Inside the Zoo
The zoo’s Instagram post showed Fiona eating a juicy watermelon and a fruit-based cake shaped like the number nine. A chalk drawing on the enclosure wall added hearts, stars, and balloons to the scene. Visitors who watched the video commented on her impressive jaw strength and the sheer joy she displayed while munching.
The caption read: “It was too cold for Fiona to celebrate her birthday outside today, so her care team brought the party to her! Fiona enjoyed a juicy watermelon today to celebrate her 9th birthday!” The video captured Fiona devouring the entire fruit in a single sitting.
Early Life and Human Care
Fiona was born in 2015 at the Cincinnati Zoo and was too small to stand or nurse on her own. Because of her size, she required round-the-clock human care. The zoo’s team treated her as a child, providing constant attention until she was strong enough to live independently.
Her early care set a precedent for the zoo’s approach to animal welfare. The team’s dedication is reflected in the zoo’s own description of Fiona as a symbol of hope and inspiration for millions.
Social Media Star and Ambassador
In 2017, Fiona’s story went viral. Her daily videos, posted on the zoo’s social media channels, showcased her growth and personality. The footage captured her playful interactions with visitors and her unique habits, such as her love for watermelon.
The zoo’s website notes that “It took a village, but #TeamFiona did it! And, by sharing her ups and downs with the world (every day for almost two years), she became a beloved symbol of hope and a source of inspiration for millions of people.” Her popularity helped raise awareness for the Nile hippo and its habitat in Africa.
Family Life at the Zoo
Fiona still shares her enclosure with her mother, Bibi, and Bibi’s son, Fritz, who was born in 2022. The family dynamic has become a focal point for visitors, who enjoy watching the interactions between the hippos.
The zoo’s staff continues to monitor the health and behavior of all three hippos, ensuring they receive the necessary care and enrichment.
Community Impact
The birthday celebration was more than a party; it was a reminder of the zoo’s role in conservation and education. By showcasing Fiona’s life and the care she receives, the zoo promotes public understanding of hippo conservation.
The post’s caption emphasized Fiona’s ambassadorial role: “Fiona has raised awareness and interest in hippos. She’s an ambassador for her species! Interest in the Nile hippo and protecting its habitat in Africa benefits all species, many critically endangered, that share their ecosystem.” The event drew attention from visitors, followers, and conservationists alike.
Key Takeaways
- Fiona’s 9th birthday was celebrated indoors due to a snowstorm.
- The zoo’s care team provided a special party, complete with watermelon and a fruit cake.
- Fiona’s story, starting in 2015, showcases the impact of dedicated animal care and social media outreach.
- The event underscores the zoo’s commitment to conservation and public education.
The Cincinnati Zoo’s celebration of Fiona’s birthday highlights the importance of animal welfare, community engagement, and conservation advocacy. By sharing her journey, the zoo continues to inspire visitors and raise critical awareness for the species she represents.
