Pygmy Hippo​ Celebrates 52nd Birthday With 'Hungry Hungry Hippos' Party At Ramona Wildlife Center

RAMONA, CA — Hannah Shirley, the world's oldest living pygmy hippopotamus in managed care, celebrated her 52nd birthday Thursday with a "Hungry Hungry Hippos"-themed party.

San Diego Humane Society's Project Wildlife team has cared for Hannah since she was rescued in 2002. Team members, guests and supporters celebrated Hannah with floating fruit treats and colorful decorations inspired by the children's game in her 13,000-square-foot habitat at Ramona Wildlife Center.

"Every day with Hannah Shirley is a gift," said Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager at San Diego Humane Society. "Her playful spirit and resilience continue to amaze us. Seeing her celebrate 52 years with such energy and curiosity is nothing short of extraordinary."

Born on Nov. 22, 1973, Hannah, who weighs around 500 pounds, surpassed the previous longevity record for her species earlier this year, officially becoming the oldest pygmy hippo ever in managed care worldwide. The species typically lives 25 to 30 years in the wild.

Hannah was rescued from a residential backyard in Escondido in 2002. Since then, she has thrived in her habitat, complete with a pond and pool, at Ramona Wildlife Center.

According to San Diego Humane Society, her days are filled with spa-like back rubs, sprinkler showers and carefully prepared meals that support her advanced age.

"Anyone who meets Hannah falls in love with her," said Angela Hernandez-Cusick, wildlife rehabilitation supervisor at San Diego Humane Society. "She embodies the joy and connection that make caring for wildlife so rewarding."