NBC4 WCMH-TV

Zoo staff use feeding tube, cuddling to help preemie hippo grow stronger

CINCINNATI (WCMH) — Caretakers at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden are cuddling with prematurely-born hippopotamus calf Fiona to regulate her breathing.

The Zoo posted a photo Saturday of a staff member laying down with the little hippo.


Staff had to give Fiona a feeding tube on Friday because she has a week suckling response. She cannot get sufficient nourishment from a bottle.