Australasian Hippopotamus Population - Discussion, History and Research

[Zoofan15]

Great discovery!

Just as i'd assumed.

It's good to finally know Lindy and Mumsy were Hilda and Henrietta. I was always fairly sure, as the young female (who was imported in 1954) was never sold to Taronga, and considering Lindy wasn't Taronga born in 1954, the only explanation was both girls being Hilda and Henrietta.

We also know Mumsy died prior to 1985 at Dubbo. Toby was always (at least imo) the offspring of Mumsy, considering he was bred with Susie (daughter of Billy and Lindy). If they were full sisters, it would've made more sense to breed Susie with her father (50% of her DNA match) rather than her full brother.

This we means we now know the following:

Mumsy:

Bonnie (1957)
Albert (1965)
Toby (1970)

Lindy:

Victoria (1967)
Suzie (1970)

There was also a calf born in 1968; but i'm assuming this was in fact (Victoria) who was born December 1967. It's interesting to see these founder girls had many names as Lindy in this article was referred to as Heather! Although we can assume this may have misinterpreted instead of 'Henrietta'.

That information was confirmed by Taronga Zoo. It was nice to have confirmation as it additionally explained what happened to Hilda and Henrietta. Though this seemed a likely explanation, there was always some confusion given the 1954 imported calf, a female named Elizabeth and a female named Heather. It’s almost like their staff in the 50’s and 60’s spoke to the media using any old names.

Taronga Zoo have additionally confirmed that Mumsy was the mother of Bonnie (as we had predicted). This means Cuddles is related to the Taronga and Werribee stock via their paternal line (Bonnie - Faith - Fonzee); though Cuddles remains the most genetically valuable female in the region given this is a distant relation and she is descended from two additional founders (Nada and Kabete), who have no other living descendants in the region besides Cuddles and her offspring.

I suspect the transfer to Dubbo was as much about what hippopotami would live in a cohesive pod. Toby appears to be Mumsy’s last offspring and was therefore still likely living cohesively with her in 1976. Removing her (and Susie) was possibly seen as helpful to Lindy continuing to produce surviving calves; as sending Toby, Lindy and Susie to Dubbo would have otherwise made more sense.

 

[Zorro]

Really looking forward to the next chapter with the regions Hippos. with the impending move of the regions only male hippo from Dubbo to the Monarto zoo and along with two of Werribees zoos females as well. The next step would be the importation of new animals to the region bringing in badly needed bloodlines.
Both Dubbo and Werribee should be scouting around for new bulls and perhaps other zoos within the region could be interested as well.

 

[Zoofan15]

Really looking forward to the next chapter with the regions Hippos. with the impending move of the regions only male hippo from Dubbo to the Monarto zoo and along with two of Werribees zoos females as well. The next step would be the importation of new animals to the region bringing in badly needed bloodlines.
Both Dubbo and Werribee should be scouting around for new bulls and perhaps other zoos within the region could be interested as well.

We’re headed for an exciting time. Even without the imports, there’s the potential to create a medium sized pod of five or six females at Monarto from Brindabella, Pansy and their female offspring. Male offspring will be produced too, but they’ll be easily placed at other facilities given the shortage of hippopotamus in the region.

Werribee would be first priority for a new bull (probably breeding with Lotus while Primrose and Tulip remain in a non breeding pair); followed by Dubbo, who will be hoping to breed from Cuddles and her daughters.

New imports would be ideal, but even if they’re able to supply Dubbo and Werribee with bulls, I’m confident new holders will arise that would happily take Monarto surplus.

 

[Jambo]

That information was confirmed by Taronga Zoo. It was nice to have confirmation as it additionally explained what happened to Hilda and Henrietta. Though this seemed a likely explanation, there was always some confusion given the 1954 imported calf, a female named Elizabeth and a female named Heather. It’s almost like their staff in the 50’s and 60’s spoke to the media using any old names.

Taronga Zoo have additionally confirmed that Mumsy was the mother of Bonnie (as we had predicted). This means Cuddles is related to the Taronga and Werribee stock via their paternal line (Bonnie - Faith - Fonzee); though Cuddles remains the most genetically valuable female in the region given this is a distant relation and she is descended from two additional founders (Nada and Kabete), who have no other living descendants in the region besides Cuddles and her offspring.

I suspect the transfer to Dubbo was as much about what hippopotami would live in a cohesive pod. Toby appears to be Mumsy’s last offspring and was therefore still likely living cohesively with her in 1976. Removing her (and Susie) was possibly seen as helpful to Lindy continuing to produce surviving calves; as sending Toby, Lindy and Susie to Dubbo would have otherwise made more sense.

I'm suprised you got an answer! I emailed Taronga a while back about their hippos and still have had no response. I've found zoos don't tend to answer those questions these days, especially with all the activists ect.

I seem to agree, it seems those original girls (we'll call them Lindy and Mumsy) had multiple names between them! Unfortunately it only made it more confusing for us doing research, but it's good to have confirmation.

It's also interesting to see Mumsy has other relatives (besides Brindabella and Pansy at Werribee). We know of course she has descendants via Cuddles and her offspring at Dubbo.

Perhaps Toby was rather close with his father, hence the transfer, with his mother. From photos there seemed to be a juvenile, but this must've been young Suzie. I'd imagine if Toby was still residing with Mumsy, it would've made the most sense to send him to Dubbo and then Suzie too to breed with Toby. Mumsy obviously was still breeding (as she had a calf in 1978 at Dubbo), but she may have been restricted due to her representation at the time, with descendants both at Adelaide and Auckland.

Some more info that would be nice to know if you could ask - who was the male that was sent to Dubbo in 1979? I'm assuming a son of Billy and Lindy's; and also any info on the male that was sent to Melbourne in the mid 60's who had to be Taronga born.

 

[Zorro]

I was just thinking if there was any kind of Hippo stud book ever been kept within the region or perhaps in the future?

 

[Zoofan15]

I'm suprised you got an answer! I emailed Taronga a while back about their hippos and still have had no response. I've found zoos don't tend to answer those questions these days, especially with all the activists ect.

I seem to agree, it seems those original girls (we'll call them Lindy and Mumsy) had multiple names between them! Unfortunately it only made it more confusing for us doing research, but it's good to have confirmation.

It's also interesting to see Mumsy has other relatives (besides Brindabella and Pansy at Werribee). We know of course she has descendants via Cuddles and her offspring at Dubbo.

Perhaps Toby was rather close with his father, hence the transfer, with his mother. From photos there seemed to be a juvenile, but this must've been young Suzie. I'd imagine if Toby was still residing with Mumsy, it would've made the most sense to send him to Dubbo and then Suzie too to breed with Toby. Mumsy obviously was still breeding (as she had a calf in 1978 at Dubbo), but she may have been restricted due to her representation at the time, with descendants both at Adelaide and Auckland.

Some more info that would be nice to know if you could ask - who was the male that was sent to Dubbo in 1979? I'm assuming a son of Billy and Lindy's; and also any info on the male that was sent to Melbourne in the mid 60's who had to be Taronga born.

Same! Though I have found Taronga Zoo to be quite good lately. Even Melbourne have been had their moments despite taking a long time to reply. Some of the zoos are limited in their reply by fact the older records aren’t online and going through archives manually is low on their list of priorities.

I’ll ask Taronga about the (probable) bull transferred to Melbourne in 1966 and the bull transferred to Dubbo in 1979.

The 1966 bull was likely a son of Billy and Mumsy. Given bulls become problematic to house with their father around five years of age, I’d guess he was born around 1960/1961. It’s also possible he was born to Bonnie given she was born 1957 at Taronga and left the zoo nine years later in 1966. Her departure could have been tied in with that of her son the same year.

 

[Zoofan15]

I was just thinking if there was any kind of Hippo stud book ever been kept within the region or perhaps in the future?

Yes there has. The studbook is on Page 99 onwards:

https://aszk.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Mammals.-Common-Hippo-2009RJ.pdf

Page 88 also gives an indication of the target population in 2005, which makes for interesting reading:

The population then comprised of 15 Common hippopotamus: 1.1 at Adelaide; 1.2 at Auckland; 1.3 at Werribee; and 2.4 at Dubbo. The 1.2 hippos at Mareeba were noted, but not included in the regional population due to be held at a non-participating facility.

A population target of 24 hippos was set for 2010 - with it acknowledged that wasn’t possible with the current number of hippopotami and that importation would be required.

It was noted the plan was for two additional holders to come on board. Crocodylus planned to acquire a breeding pair and Monarto planned to acquire three females. Adelaide, Auckland and Dubbo would maintain their populations; while the plan was for Werribee to grow their population from 1.3 to 1.5.2 hippopotami.

It was suggested that a minimum import of 1.1 would be required with imports sourced from the USA.

 

[Jambo]

Same! Though I have found Taronga Zoo to be quite good lately. Even Melbourne have been had their moments despite taking a long time to reply. Some of the zoos are limited in their reply by fact the older records aren’t online and going through archives manually is low on their list of priorities.

I’ll ask Taronga about the (probable) bull transferred to Melbourne in 1966 and the bull transferred to Dubbo in 1979.

The 1966 bull was likely a son of Billy and Mumsy. Given bulls become problematic to house with their father around five years of age, I’d guess he was born around 1960/1961. It’s also possible he was born to Bonnie given she was born 1957 at Taronga and left the zoo nine years later in 1966. Her departure could have been tied in with that of her son the same year.

That's great then. Cheers for putting in the question too. Hopefully we get a reply soon.

I'm more than certain the bull mentioned as arriving in 1966 was Taronga born. He can't have been an overseas import, and the only other option is Auckland (which history we have already covered).

I think it's highly likely he was born to Bonnie. Bonnie was at Taronga up until the age of nine, so there's no reason why she couldn't have conceived before her departure (say three or four years before) - around 1962/63. By 1966, Bonnie could've been separated from the young bull, and both could be sent away. Auckland didn't have the facilities at the time for an additional bull, yet Melbourne did, hence why they took him in.

 

[Jambo]

Yes there has. The studbook is on Page 99 onwards:

https://aszk.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Mammals.-Common-Hippo-2009RJ.pdf

Page 88 also gives an indication of the target population in 2005, which makes for interesting reading.

The previous Studbook Coordinator was located at Melbourne/Werribee although they've now moved that position to Dubbo.

 

[Zoofan15]

That's great then. Cheers for putting in the question too. Hopefully we get a reply soon.

I'm more than certain the bull mentioned as arriving in 1966 was Taronga born. He can't have been an overseas import, and the only other option is Auckland (which history we have already covered).

I think it's highly likely he was born to Bonnie. Bonnie was at Taronga up until the age of nine, so there's no reason why she couldn't have conceived before her departure (say three or four years before) - around 1962/63. By 1966, Bonnie could've been separated from the young bull, and both could be sent away. Auckland didn't have the facilities at the time for an additional bull, yet Melbourne did, hence why they took him in.

You’re welcome.

Faith gave birth to her first offspring at the age of three, but she didn’t successfully rear a calf until she was seven years old given the presence of other hippopotamus in the exhibit. One of her previous calves was rejected by her after her mother Bonnie prevented her from going near the calf. With multiple hippos onsite, I imagine Bonnie faced a similar situation and may have only succeeding in rearing a calf when she attained maturity in 1962 (or a couple of years after).

Taronga would have been keen to move the young bull on before he reached the age of five (and became a problem) and Bonnie’s export to Auckland Zoo would have tied in well.

While I can confirm he remained at the zoo, Auckland Zoo should have sent their young bull (Scuba). Auckland soon had two mature bulls (Kabete and Scuba), which meant the cows had to be held with one of them at any given time. It greatly increased the mortality rate of calves.

 

[Zorro]

Yes there has. The studbook is on Page 99 onwards:

https://aszk.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Mammals.-Common-Hippo-2009RJ.pdf

Page 88 also gives an indication of the target population in 2005, which makes for interesting reading:

The population then comprised of 15 Common hippopotamus: 1.1 at Adelaide; 1.2 at Auckland; 1.3 at Werribee; and 2.4 at Dubbo. The 1.2 hippos at Mareeba were noted, but not included in the regional population due to be held at a non-participating facility.

A population target of 24 hippos was set for 2010 - with it acknowledged that wasn’t possible with the current number of hippopotami and that importation would be required.

It was noted the plan was for two additional holders to come on board. Crocodylus planned to acquire a breeding pair and Monarto planned to acquire three females. Adelaide, Auckland and Dubbo would maintain their populations; while the plan was for Werribee to grow their population from 1.3 to 1.5.2 hippopotami.

It was suggested that a minimum import of 1.1 would be required with imports sourced from the USA.

I am wondering if Crocodylus still has any interest another couple of holders would made a big difference to maintaining a good size population for the long term

 

[Jambo]

I am wondering if Crocodylus still has any interest another couple of holders would made a big difference to maintaining a good size population for the long term

I'd assume so.

Hopefully with Monarto having the facilities to hold a large breeding group, we'll have enough hippos to facilitate another facility.

 

[Zoofan15]

I am wondering if Crocodylus still has any interest another couple of holders would made a big difference to maintaining a good size population for the long term

I’m hoping so. I’m doubtful they’d import from overseas given the cost involved - that’s more likely to come from Zoos Victoria and Taronga; but any imports would generate a surplus overnight given many of the hippos within the existing population would become redundant to the breeding programme.

Similarly, once they acquire a bull (either from Monarto or through import), Werribee may be happy to transfer out their two elder cows and use the two exhibits to house the bull and Lotus respectively, which would provide her with total seclusion to rear her calf in safety.

 

[Zoofan15]

I'd assume so.

Hopefully with Monarto having the facilities to hold a large breeding group, we'll have enough hippos to facilitate another facility.

According to @Swanson02 from his latest visit, the current target for Monarto is 5-6 hippos, suggesting a cohesive female pod centred around Brindabella and Pansy will be the starting point; but they they’ve also stated they’re open to expanding down the line.

Long term I imagine they’re allowing for a faction to form in the pod which would require a split; but long term, a new female could be imported to found a second female pod - either with Kani or an imported bull.

Either way, Kani’s going to be very busy…

 

[Jambo]

I’m hoping so. I’m doubtful they’d import from overseas given the cost involved - that’s more likely to come from Zoos Victoria and Taronga; but any imports would generate a surplus overnight given many of the hippos within the existing population would become redundant to the breeding programme.

Similarly, once they acquire a bull (either from Monarto or through import), Werribee may be happy to transfer out their two elder cows and use the two exhibits to house the bull and Lotus respectively, which would provide her with total seclusion to rear her calf in safety.

If an import is achieved, i'd imagine most (if not all) of our hippos would be sent to smaller breeding institutions. A large scale import will be on the cards (i'd say 10+ hippos); for Monarto, Dubbo and Werribee.

Werribee have three enclosures, so have the space for Lotus (her calves), a bull, and Primrose and Tulip. If they can, I think Werribee will at least aim to breed from both Lotus and Tulip. During the time both girls are residing with their calves, the bull could easily be grouped with Primrose.

 

[Zoofan15]

If an import is achieved, i'd imagine most (if not all) of our hippos would be sent to smaller breeding institutions. A large scale import will be on the cards (i'd say 10+ hippos); for Monarto, Dubbo and Werribee.

Werribee have three enclosures, so have the space for Lotus (her calves), a bull, and Primrose and Tulip. If they can, I think Werribee will at least aim to breed from both Lotus and Tulip. During the time both girls are residing with their calves, the bull could easily be grouped with Primrose.

If imports are achieved before Monarto can supply a reproductive age bull (at the earliest 2028), then both Dubbo and Werribee may choose to retire their cows given there’ll be the opportunity to import more genetically valuable cows. Both mother-daughter trios could be held in a cohesive pod long term.

Alternatively, Dubbo may wish to breed from Cuddles (their most valuable cow), with the aim of reintegrating her and any calves with her adult daughters. A medium sized pod at Monarto will soon become an attraction they could be keen to compete with and they have the space to do it.

 

[Zorro]

If imports are achieved before Monarto can supply a reproductive age bull (at the earliest 2028), then both Dubbo and Werribee may choose to retire their cows given there’ll be the opportunity to import more genetically valuable cows. Both mother-daughter trios could be held in a cohesive pod long term.

Alternatively, Dubbo may wish to breed from Cuddles (their most valuable cow), with the aim of reintegrating her and any calves with her adult daughters. A medium sized pod at Monarto will soon become an attraction they could be keen to compete with and they have the space to do it.

Monarto has enough room for them to keep as many as they want

 

[Jambo]

If imports are achieved before Monarto can supply a reproductive age bull (at the earliest 2028), then both Dubbo and Werribee may choose to retire their cows given there’ll be the opportunity to import more genetically valuable cows. Both mother-daughter trios could be held in a cohesive pod long term.

My fingers are crossed for imports. Our region badly needs them.

If imports aren't on the horizon though, I think it's more likely Werribee chooses to breed from both Tulip and Lotus to ensure numbers (at least for the time being). Especially considering how close we are right now to a population collapse, with one bull remaining.

Alternatively, Dubbo may wish to breed from Cuddles (their most valuable cow), with the aim of reintegrating her and any calves with her adult daughters. A medium sized pod at Monarto will soon become an attraction they could be keen to compete with and they have the space to do it

Dubbo could easily group Kibibi and Kendi together (possibly even alongside Nile too), and then continue to breed from Cuddles, with her offspring being retained and grouped with her in a similar way as they are now.

 

[Zoofan15]

Monarto has enough room for them to keep as many as they want

Monarto will only be limited by what social groupings the hippopotami can be kept in. Ideally the cohesive female pod can be formed. The challenge will be reintroducing mothers and their calves, once last the neonate stage (around six months). Starting with a mother and daughter gives them the best chance, combined with the ample space.

 

[Zorro]

Monarto will only be limited by what social groupings the hippopotami can be kept in. Ideally the cohesive female pod can be formed. The challenge will be reintroducing mothers and their calves, once last the neonate stage (around six months). Starting with a mother and daughter gives them the best chance, combined with the ample space.

Am aware of the groupings but there's nothing stopping them keeping more than one group