A beloved hippo at the San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Wildlife Center just hit a milestone that’s as rare as it is sweet.
Hannah Shirley — believed to be the world’s oldest living pygmy hippopotamus — celebrated her upcoming 52nd birthday on Thursday, Nov. 20, with a birthday party inspired by Hungry, Hungry Hippos. Rescue staff transformed her enclosure into a festive scene, complete with floating fruit and pink-and-purple streamers, then watched as Hannah happily investigated her treats and gift boxes.
Team members from the San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife division, who have cared for Hannah for more than two decades, joined supporters and guests for the celebration.
“Every day with Hannah Shirley is a gift,” said Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager at the 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 is set to surpass the previous longevity record for her species, officially becoming the oldest known pygmy hippo ever documented in managed care worldwide.
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The achievement is especially remarkable considering pygmy hippos typically live between 25 and 30 years in the wild. Hannah’s story has been extraordinary from the start: in 2002, she was rescued from a private backyard in Escondido, Calif., and has lived safely at the Ramona Wildlife Center ever since. Her caretakers have adjusted her routine carefully over the years to support her senior needs.
Today, Hannah enjoys a 13,000-square-foot habitat designed for comfort and mobility, featuring a pond, a pool, and ample space for her slow, steady movements. Her daily care also includes gentle “spa treatments” like back rubs, sprinkler showers, and thoughtfully prepared meals suited to an older hippo.
“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.”
