The Nile hippopotamus calf recently born at the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens has officially been named ‘Momo’, following a special naming competition held for children to celebrate the zoo’s newest addition.
The name was officially announced on Thursday (01), coinciding with World Children’s Day, during a special ceremony held at the Dehiwala Zoo.
According to the Department of National Zoological Gardens, the competition attracted enthusiastic participation from young children, with nearly 1,000 names submitted for the baby hippo.
A committee comprising zoo officials selected ‘Momo’ as the winning name, which was first proposed by a young girl named Avandha Tamari.
In recognition of her winning entry, Avandha was presented with special gifts at a ceremony attended by Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody, who handed over the prizes.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment and the Department of National Zoological Gardens also participated in the event.
Meanwhile, the Department expressed its appreciation to the zoo’s animal keepers, veterinary officers and other staff members for their continued dedication to ensuring the calf’s health and well-being.
Thanking the children and members of the public for the overwhelming affection shown towards Momo, the Department also extended an invitation to families and young visitors to visit the Dehiwala Zoo and meet its newest little star. (Newswire)
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