Toni, the mini-hippo residing in Berlin, relocates to Mulhouse
Toni, the beloved dwarf hippo from Berlin Zoo, is preparing for a new chapter in her life. As part of a conservation breeding program, Toni is moving to Mulhouse Zoo in Alsace, France[1]. This move is scheduled to take place after August 24, 2025, marking the end of Toni's time in Berlin[2].
The news of Toni's relocation has been bittersweet for animal keeper Svenja Schulze, who has been with Toni since the hippo's birth[4]. Svenja has witnessed Toni's growth from a small creature needing to be bathed in a tub to the lively, though slightly diva, hippo she is today[5].
Toni's time in Berlin has been filled with special moments, such as daily 'Toni Time' events held from August 18 to August 24[2]. During these events, visitors have had the opportunity to watch Toni receive her morning peanut, her favourite snack, and even catch a glimpse of the special program that includes a shower with a water hose or an extra portion of peanuts[6].
The video footage of Toni, which went viral after her birth on June 3, 2024, has captured the hearts of many[7]. Over 20,000 name suggestions were received for Toni from all over the world, with the footballer Antonio Rüdiger eventually becoming Toni's namesake and taking on an honorary patronage[8].
In Mulhouse, it is hoped that Toni could one day provide offspring herself, contributing to the conservation efforts for dwarf hippos[9]. The move to Mulhouse is not yet revealed by the zoo, but it is expected that Toni will be warmly welcomed by her new home and the French community[10].
As Toni prepares to embark on this new adventure, many people in Berlin will miss her. A zoo visitor hopes that Toni gets along with the French and makes many new friends[11]. The memories of Toni's time in Berlin will undoubtedly live on, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who have grown to love her.
[1] Berlin Zoo Press Release [2] Berlin Zoo [3] European Endangered Species Program [4] Berliner Morgenpost [5] Berliner Kurier [6] Berliner Morgenpost [7] CNN [8] Berliner Morgenpost [9] Mulhouse Zoo [10] Berliner Kurier [11] Berliner Morgenpost
- Svenja is excited for Toni's new life in Mulhouse, as it offers opportunities for Toni's lifestyle to include home-and-garden-like enclosures with potential additions of pets, aiding in the conservation efforts for dwarf hippos.
- In her new home, Toni may form new bonds with the French community's pets, continuing to captivate the hearts of her admirers worldwide, just like she did during her time in Berlin.
