Longleat Hippo dies aged 49
The Wiltshire Safari Park says Spot will be "deeply missed"
Last updated 30th Jan 2024
Longleat says its beloved Hippo Spot has died at the age of 49.
The Wiltshire safari park announced the news on Monday (29/01).
Spot, who has been at the park since 1977, was a firm favourite with keepers and visitors and will be “deeply missed.”
Posting on Facebook, Longleat said: “We are very sad to announce that last week we said goodbye to our hippo, Spot, who died at the age of 49.
“Longleat was her home for 47 years. She was loved by her keepers and made a big impression with our visitors.”
Hippos normally live for around 40-50 years, and despite their size can also reach speeds of up to 20mph.
“The highlight of any trip to Longleat is the boat safari on Half Mile Lake, which offered the chance to glimpse Spot as she broke the surface of the water,” they continued.
“Spot shared Half Mile Lake with beavers, as well as sea lions and a variety of birds who would frequently use her as a rest stop or hitch a ride as she swam around the lake.
“She loved to be outside or in the lake, and could often been seen wallowing in the mud.
“Like all the animals at Longleat, Spot was very special. She was a firm favourite with keepers and visitors, and she will be deeply missed.”