Zoo Miami's efforts to care for one of its most unique residents, a pygmy hippopotamus named Aubergine, recently escalated when questions arose about the hippo's health. According to WSVN, the endangered animal has been dealing with a congenital defect since birth, causing complications with food entering his respiratory system.
The zoo's veterinarians sprang into action after Aubergine began showing signs of lethargy and lost interest in his meals. With non-invasive methods failing to yield improvements, a decision was made, let's put the hippo under. Aubergine was anesthetized allowing the team to perform an in-depth exploration of his condition. The procedures conducted included radiographs, ultrasounds, an endoscopy of his sinuses, and blood work. Following these tests, doctors cleared debris from the hippo's sinuses, though no other significant issues were discovered.
Aubergine's saga, documented by Zoo Miami's social media update, illustrates the ongoing challenge of managing animal health care for endangered species in captivity. The well-being of these rare creatures remains a significant concern, and the dedicated professionals at institutions like Zoo Miami act as their guardians, taking every sign of distress seriously.
Yesterday, Aubergine, an endangered male pygmy hippopotamus, was immobilized to undergo an extensive examination by the Zoo Miami Animal Health team. Learn more: https://t.co/Lg4drMPwWV pic.twitter.com/Dj1g4opAYH
— Zoo Miami (@zoomiami) July 18, 2025
After coming around from the anesthesia, Aubergine rejoined the ranks of the living, sliding back into his daily routine, surrounded by the same habitat that has been, crafted to simulate the vestiges of the wild. The health team at Zoo Miami will maintain their vigilant watch over him, employing non-invasive treatments with the hopes to see an upturn in Aubergine's appetite and overall condition.
