Hippos are back!

Say hello to Matylda and Manon!

The sisters are the first hippos to arrive at Longleat in more than 40 years after a 780+ mile journey from the Czech Republic.

Ambitious plans to bring back hippos were unveiled last year and yesterday the dream became reality when Matylda and Manon safely arrived in their new home.

Four-year-old Matylda and three-year-old Manon, will be joined by Lola and Hodor from Whipsnade Zoo in the next couple of weeks.

Darren Beasley, Head of Animal Operations, said: “We are all over the moon to have hippos back at Longleat; we have all missed having this species on the estate after the deaths of Sonia and Spot who had lived here for decades.

“They have a new state-of-the art home and will spend the next few weeks getting used to their new surroundings and our keepers. They may be spotted from time to time in their paddock by guests during this period.

“A specialist transport team delivered our new arrivals safely across Europe, offering comfort and expert knowledge so the two young hippos experienced a first class journey.

“The sisters have lived together all their lives and we will slowly be introducing them to Lola and Hodor – a mother and son – when they arrive with us shortly.

“Our ambition is to have a family breeding pod overtime and contribute to the conservation breeding programme for this vulnerable species.”

Simon Askew, Chief Operating Officer, said: “It was fantastic to see their safe arrival and we look forward to seeing them explore their new surroundings including Half Mile Pond once they have settled.

“Their arrival is very much part of our commitment not just to conservation but also to education and sustainability with their complex having been built using environmentally friendly practices and also features a classroom.”

Guests to the Safari Park will be able to see Matylda, who weighs 990kg and Manon 750kg from the Jungle Cruise which sails across Half Mile Pond.