Bumpy’s caretakers describe the little hippo as a “very chatty fellow and keeps up a steady stream of conversation.”
NAIROBI, Kenya — Wildlife rescuers in Kenya brought an orphaned newborn hippo to a sanctuary for care, and he hasn’t left their sides ever since.
Bumpy follows his caretakers everywhere and is often found snuggling up with his new human friends at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
“This little hippo has nudged right into our hearts,” the trust said on its website. “An orphaned hippo has landed in our laps — quite literally. After tragically losing his mother, this tiny chap now has a family with us and a wild future to look forward to.”
Bumpy was an infant he was found nestled beside his mother, calling out for her to respond. Rescuers with Kenya Wildlife Service Vet and Capture believe she died the day before from natural causes that may have stemmed from a territorial fight.
“He clearly didn’t understand the situation,” the trust said. “He was calling out to his mother and nudging her with his blunt little nose, desperately hoping for a response.”
The “pint-sized calf” was brought to the trust on May 2 and quickly became glued to his caretakers.
The little hippo, who is described as “particularly adorable,” is thriving and has captured the hearts of the team.
“Bumpy is already hooked on his Keepers. He follows them around like a shadow, grunting noisily with every step,” they said. “He is a very chatty fellow and keeps up a steady stream of conversation. Being such a young baby, he rests plenty and sleeps most soundly when cuddled alongside a Keeper.”
The trust describes itself as the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world, according to its website, and features animals in its care and their often harrowing rescue stories.