Longleat Estate Unveils Plans to Reintroduce Hippos and Join European Breeding Program

Longleat Estate, a safari park, has announced its intention to reintroduce hippos and participate significantly in the European breeding program for the species. The estate previously housed two hippos, Sonia and Spot, who were well-liked by visitors. These animals passed away in 2023 and January of the current year, respectively, having resided in Wiltshire for nearly five decades. The park aims to reintroduce the hippos by the upcoming summer and has submitted proposals for a new hippo enclosure, along with enhancements to the grazing paddock and Half Mile Pond. Simon Askew, the interim chief operating officer, stated, “We want to be part of the European breeding programme for this iconic species.” The park intends to bring in a bull and several females to establish a family group, referred to as a “bloat” of hippos. Additionally, the proposal includes indoor pools for the hippos, a dedicated classroom for educational presentations, opportunities for behind-the-scenes tours, and provisions for group visits. Mr. Askew further commented, “Our hippos were much-loved by visitors and staff alike and we want to enable their return as part of our commitments to conservation and education of this incredible species.” Hippos were initially introduced to the Safari Park in 1967, one year after its establishment. Mr. Askew indicated that if Longleat successfully reintroduces hippos, the park could assume a “key part” in the European breeding program for this vulnerable species, potentially housing the largest group of hippos in Europe. He stated, “If we are able to bring them back to Longleat, they would have access to the largest free-range water habitat in the UK for hippos in human care and seven acres of grazing land.” He also mentioned, “Advances in hippo care means we want to invest in the modernisation of the housing available.” The safari park’s proposals were formally submitted to Wiltshire Council on Friday.