To commemorate World Hippopotamus Day on February 15, both parks are highlighting the crucial role they play in preserving these enormous and unique animals.
February 15 is a special day for those who, like BIOPARC Fuengirola and BIOPARC Valencia, work tirelessly to protect fascinating and vulnerable species. On this day, these two parks join in the commemoration of the World Hippo Day highlighting the fundamental role they play in the conservation of these enormous and peculiar animals.
World Hippopotamus Day 2025.
At BIOPARC Valencia, the imposing common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius), which inhabits the vast African plains, is under the watchful eye of animal care teams. This species, which was once a symbol of the abundance of African rivers, is now classified as “Vulnerable” to extinction by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). Poaching and the destruction of its habitat have reduced its population in an alarming way.
In the Stunning aquarium that recreates the great African wetlands Here you can see the only underwater view of these animals in Spain and also see them interacting in family groups, an image that is unfortunately increasingly rare in nature. Despite its size and robust appearance, the common hippopotamus faces an uncertain future, and the international scientifically controlled breeding programme in which BIOPARC participates is crucial to guarantee its survival.
The BIOPARCs are home to the only two species currently surviving on our planet: the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis), both endangered according to the IUCN Red List.
To the south, in BIOPARC Fuengirola, there is a relative unknown to most, but equally attractive: the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis), a species that also guards the Valencian animal conservation park. Its nocturnal nature and its ability to move silently among the vegetation have made it a true ghost of the jungle, so difficult to spot that for centuries it was thought to be a mythological creature.
Currently, the specialized staff in Fuengirola is providing maximum well-being to a pair of pygmies: Liberia and Alban. And in Valencia, there is Panchita, who lives in a curious multi-species enclosure with sitatunga, talapoin, drill and Nile goose.
This little giant is classified as “Critically Endangered.” According to the IUCN Red List, its population is estimated to be no more than 2.500 individuals. In both parks, the pygmy hippopotamus enjoys a carefully designed space that recreates its natural habitat, while educating about the importance of preserving rich biodiversity and lesser-known species.
These two species, So different in size and behavior, they have in common the urgent need for protectionThe common hippopotamus, although more visible, is affected by hunting and the deterioration of its habitats, while the more discreet pygmy hippopotamus faces an even more serious threat due to the reduction of its living space.
But beyond the statistics and threats, International Hippopotamus Day is also a reason to to praise the enormous seduction that these animals have generated throughout history. From their ability to remain submerged for several minutes to their peculiar social behaviors, hippos continue to be a source of admiration.
BIOPARC Fuengirola and BIOPARC Valencia invite you to celebrate this day with them, to discover more about these animals and to reflect on what each person can contribute to their protection. At a time when biodiversity is under threat, Protecting species like the hippopotamus has never been more crucial.
February, BIOPARC Valencia's Anniversary month.
This February BIOPARC celebrates its 17º Anniversary with the double “for a cause” promotion that offers a single price for online tickets at €20+€1 and for the B! Annual Pass at €50+€1. Each €1 + will be donated through the BIOPARC Foundation to the conservation of the bat, the most emblematic Valencian species.
