The Toronto Zoo officially announced the name of its newest resident on August 21, 2026, designating the newborn pygmy hippopotamus "Maple." The naming ceremony took place at the zoo in Toronto, Ontario, and marked the formal introduction of the calf to the public and staff.
The infant hippo arrived at the facility earlier this month, prompting zoo officials to select a name that would accompany the animal throughout its life at the institution. The name "Maple" was chosen and publicly disclosed on the 21st of August, aligning with the zoo's practice of assigning names to newly born animals shortly after their arrival.
By naming the calf, the zoo provides a clear identifier for caretakers, researchers, and visitors, facilitating communication and record‑keeping. The announcement underscores the zoo's ongoing role in caring for a diverse collection of species, including the relatively rare pygmy hippopotamus.
The event was noted in the zoo's communications on the day of the announcement, confirming that the animal now carries the name Maple as part of its official documentation. The naming follows the recent birth of the pygmy hippo calf, linking the two milestones in the zoo's calendar.
Maple will join other animals at the Toronto Zoo, where staff continue to monitor its health and development. The zoo's decision to name the calf reflects standard procedures for newly arrived young animals, ensuring that each receives an identity that can be used in educational programs and daily care.
The public can expect to see Maple as part of the zoo's exhibits, with the name serving as a point of connection for visitors interested in the species and the zoo's animal residents.