Montgomery Zoo Announce Winning Name to Pygmy Hippo Calf

The Montgomery Zoo announced the name of its four month old pygmy hippo calf in a ceremony held at the Zoo on August 24, 2016. The winning name, chosen through a public election held on August 23, is Monty. The name Monty was a popular suggestion as it represents the City of Montgomery.

The zoo collected name suggestions from the public through July 31, 2016. More than 500 names were submitted, and the top three were presented for voting. The three names presented were Monty, Henry, and Lyle. Votes were cast in person at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum and online at montgomeryzoo.com in a one day election held on August 23. The race was close, but Monty, an early favorite, came out on top with the most votes.

The calf was born on April 3, 2016 and made his public debut on July 5, 2016. Since his debut, the calf has been on display daily with his mother, Lola, in a newly renovated exhibit in the South American realm of the Montgomery Zoo.

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum is open daily from 9am-5:30pm with the last ticket being sold at 4pm. Animal exhibits begin closing at 4:30pm. Discount combo admission to the Zoo and Mann Museum is Adults $20, Children (3-12 years) $15, and Toddlers (2 years and under) Free. Regular admission to the Zoo only is Adults $15, Children (3-12 years) $11, and Toddlers (2 years and under) Free. Military and Senior Citizen discounts are available.