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Pygmy Hippo Enjoys A Hippopotomassage At Austrailian Zoo

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing 'Hippopotomassage' at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Felix, the pygmy hippo at Melbourne Zoo, recently enjoyed a luxurious spa day. He received special treatments to keep him comfortable and happy.

A Unique ‘Hippopotomassage’

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

One highlight of Felix’s spa day was a unique “hippopotomassage.” This special massage helps keep his skin healthy and hydrated.

Hoof Oil Pedicure for Felix

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Felix also received a “hoof oil pedicure.” This treatment prevents his hooves from cracking due to sun exposure.

Special Care for Endangered Species

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Pygmy hippos like Felix are endangered, making his care even more important. Melbourne Zoo is committed to his well-being.

Keeping Felix Comfortable

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

The zoo uses oils to massage Felix’s skin and hooves. This helps protect him from the harsh sun and keeps him comfortable.

Positive Reinforcement Training

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Felix participates in his own skin care routine thanks to positive reinforcement training. This approach makes the experience enjoyable for him.

Watch the video here.

Voluntary Participation

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Felix voluntarily comes into a safe area for his treatments. He sits down, lies down, and even rolls over to present his feet to the keepers.

Importance of Consistency

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Consistent training is key to Felix’s participation. Regular routines help him feel secure and cooperative.

Watch the video here.

Treats as Motivation

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Nice treats are part of Felix’s training. These rewards make the experience pleasant and motivate him to participate.

Endangered Status of Pygmy Hippos

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, pygmy hippos are endangered. This makes Felix’s care at Melbourne Zoo crucial.

Watch the video here.

Felix’s Special Bond with Keepers

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Felix has developed a special bond with his keepers. This relationship is built on trust and positive interactions.

Spa Treatments for Well-being

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

The spa treatments Felix receives are more than just pampering. They play a vital role in maintaining his overall well-being.

Watch the video here.

Role of the Zoo Coordinator

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Luke Hausler, the Melbourne Zoo Carnivores and Ungulates coordinator, oversees Felix’s care. He emphasizes the importance of Felix’s participation in his routine.

Protecting Felix’s Skin

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

The zoo’s efforts include protecting Felix’s skin from cracking. This is especially important due to his exposure to the sun.

A Happy and Healthy Hippo

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Thanks to the dedicated care at Melbourne Zoo, Felix is a happy and healthy hippo. His spa days are just one part of the comprehensive care he receives.

Felix’s Future at the Zoo

Screenshot from CPygmy Hippo Receives Relaxing ‘Hippopotomassage’ at Aussie Zoo‬. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: WNCT-TV 9 On Your Side.

Melbourne Zoo will continue to provide Felix with the best care possible. His well-being is a top priority for the zoo staff. I hope you enjoyed reading about Felix the hippo getting a spa day. To read more store sbaout hippos check out the articles below:

Latest posts by Alana Theron, BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology (see all)