Happy the Hippo Leaves DC
- by Brandon Fuller on Thursday, July 23, 2009
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If you’ve ever visited the National Zoo, you’ve probably had an encounter with Happy the Nile hippopotamus. Happy lives in the elephant enclosure and thrills visitors simply by yawning or eating. Happy was born at the National Zoo and has resided there for 28 years.
The Zoo is in the middle of a multi-million dollar elephant enclosure renovation that will include a large elephant walking area. Unfortunately, to make room for the new expansion, Happy’s home had to be eliminated. Happy will be moved to Milwaukee County Zoo, where he will enjoy a large inside habitat with two female hippos.
The National Zoo is going to great lengths to ensure the 11-foot, 5,500 pound hippo is moved safely. For several weeks, a large crate has been left in Happy’s home so he can adjust to the crate and undergo travel training.
Happy will make the big move in a few weeks, at the end of the summer. Make sure you see him before he moves to Wisconsin. To learn more about Happy and his move, visit the Zoo’s “Happy Update” website.
Photo Credit: Flickr CC User stevehdc
Sphere: Related ContentAbout the Author
Brandon Fuller has written 178 stories on this site.
Brandon Fuller works at the intersection of environmental policy and communications. Currently, he publishes a blog on environmental issues and green living that has been featured in the Washington Post Express, Washingtonian.com, GreenPlanet.com and more. He is also a member of the advisory committee for CarbonFreeDC, a grassroots initiative dedicated to mobilizing DC-area residents to dramatically reduce local carbon emissions. He recently earned a law degree in environmental law and policy and has served as both a Law Clerk and Legislative Assistant for the State of Florida.
