Disney’s Animal Kingdom hippo turns 50 with special birthday ‘cake’

Viviana, a hippo on Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is celebrating her 50th birthday. The Animal Nutrition team created a special hippo birthday cake featuring her favorite foods, including sweet watermelon.

“Today, we’re celebrating a truly remarkable milestone — Viviana, one of the opening day animals here at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is marking her 50th birthday. Born on January 22nd, Viviana has been a cherished member of our animal family, and she continues to thrive on Kilimanjaro Safaris. She enjoys spending her days relaxing in the water and socializing with her hippo friends, Tuma, Tequila and Ramona,'” Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President Animals, Science, Environment, Disney Parks, wrote on his Instagram account.

“To celebrate her golden anniversary, our skilled Animal Nutrition team crafted a special ‘birthday cake’ filled with some of Viviana’s favorite foods, including refreshing watermelon and cantaloupe,” he wrote.

“Viviana’s long life is a testament to the care and attention she receives from the Animal Care team, and we’re grateful to celebrate 50 years of health, happiness, and unforgettable moments with her,” according to Penning.

Hippos are considered the second largest land animal on Earth (first place goes to the elephant!). Males measure around 11.5 feet long and 5 feet tall and weigh up to 7,000 pounds, according to National Geographic Kids.

Hippos are herbivores and eat mostly grass. They can eat up to 77 pounds in a day. They are great swimmers and can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater.

Female hippos, called cows, give birth every two years, usually to a single calf. Soon after birth, the mother and her baby join up with other cows and calves for protection against predators, such as crocodiles, lions and hyenas.

In the wild hippos live for around 40 years. In captivity, they tend to live longer and may reach up to 50 years old.

See more Disney Animal news here.