Toni, the mini-hippo residing in Berlin, relocates to Mulhouse

Until the 24th of August, Berlin Zoo offers a chance to witness a young dwarf hippo. Afterward, Toni takes a trip to France, with a small event anticipated by fans.

, and Administrator

2025 August 31 . 4:23 AM

2 min read

Tonic the mini-hippo shifts location from Berlin to Mulhouse

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