Pygmy hippos are generally solitary, though they can occasionally be found in pairs or small family groups. Primarily nocturnal, they forage in humid forests at night and retreat to swamps or rivers during the day to escape harsh sunlight. At the zoo, Uncle Dzít enjoys a specialized diet tailored to his needs, including fresh vegetables such as carrots and pumpkin, along with grass and seasonal fruits.
One of Uncle Dzít’s favorite routines is having his teeth brushed while he eats. During these moments, he opens his mouth wide for a thorough scrub, eyes drifting shut in blissful relaxation. These sessions are more than dental care—they are a profound interaction between Uncle Dzít and his keepers, built entirely on positive reinforcement, cooperation, and trust. Remarkably intelligent, he often opens his mouth proactively, anticipating the brushing before being prompted.
In the wild, pygmy hippos are estimated to number fewer than 2,500 individuals, with populations continuing to decline due to habitat loss and hunting. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the species as Endangered.
Uncle Dzít is therefore not merely a resident of the Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens; he is a rare ambassador for a species in urgent need of protection. As you leave the pygmy hippo enclosure, we hope you carry with you not only the charming image of Uncle Dzít but also a renewed appreciation and commitment to wildlife conservation.
