Meet Ksyusha, the pygmy hippo! She arrived at the Moscow Zoo in 2017 and immediately became a favorite among visitors. Ksyusha can be seen year-round in a purpose-built indoor pavilion, where she spends her time in an enclosure with a luxurious pool. In the warm season, she goes out onto the lawn to bask in the gentle sunshine, graze on grass, and take an outdoor bath.

When best to watch her: morning and early evening. In the afternoon, Ksyusha rests.

Watch the livestream at onlinezoo.moscow every day from 07:30 to 21:00 (MSK, Moscow Standard Time). Or come to the zoo to see her in person!

Of the three pygmy hippo species, only one—the Liberian hippopotamus—survives today, and most of these animals are found in Liberia. They inhabit areas close to bodies of still or slow-moving water and seldom stray more than a few hundred meters from it. Although pygmy hippos spend much of their time on land, water is essential to prevent them from drying out.

The pygmy hippo is not simply a miniature version of the common hippo—they may look similar, but pygmy hippos are more compact and endearing. They are less aggressive in defending territory and feed exclusively on vegetation. Their appetite peaks at dusk, and over the next few hours they happily munch on grass, vegetables, and fruit.

Pygmy hippos thrive when living alone, though they are sometimes seen in pairs. Currently, Ksyusha is thriving as the sole occupant of two enclosures at the Moscow Zoo and enjoys the undivided attention of visitors and guests.

New Grounds, "Animals of Africa" exhibit, Pygmy Hippo Pavilion

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