PREVIEW

Fiona, Cincinnati Zoo’s world-famous hippo, turned seven on Wednesday (24January2024).
Over the course of her seven years on the planet, the giant mammal has become the zoo’s star attraction - with her adorable antics followed across social media.
As befitting Cincinnati’s hippo queen, she was spoiled on her birthday - receiving a birthday cake and her favourite watermelon treats. She also spent the day with her one-year-old brother brother, Fritz - who has also become something of a social media star.
Fiona’s rise to fame came in part because she was born prematurely to mum Bibi - with fans falling for her fighting spirit and adorable cuteness. She’s not quite so cute now, having reached maturity - but still has a winning personality.
“She is indeed a lucky hippo, having survived a premature birth against the odds,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard.  “And she remains a hometown hero and symbol of hope seven years later. People still come from all over the world to see Fiona and her little brother Fritz.”   
As part of the celebrations, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is offering a grand prize package that includes a behind-the-scenes hippo tour for 7 people, a $1,000 Visa gift card, a 2-night stay at Graduate Cincinnati, a $50 gift card to Fiona’s Cafe, and a complete library of Fiona books illustrated by Richard Cowdrey. To enter you just have to buy Fiona a $7 or $30 birthday gift. Each gets you a digital Fiona kiss print - with the $30 gift earning you seven entries as opposed to one. You can enter until 31 January 2024.
Funds raised help provide food, toys, and fun enrichment for Zoo animals.