Zoo gets 'hippopotamus for Christmas'

Famous singer helps Oklahoma City welcome 'Franny'

The Oklahoma City zoo welcomed Francesca the pygmy hippopotamus with help from the singer who made famous the holiday song "I want a hippopotamus for Christmas."

Singer Gayla Peevey recently heralded the 26-year-old hippo's arrival at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, just in time for the holidays, KOCO reported.

Franny, described by her caretakers as confident and calm, joins Wolee, a 43-year-old male pygmy hippo, at the zoo, KOCO reported. 

“Hippos are an iconic part of the OKC Zoo’s legacy and we’re excited for Wolee to have a new companion in Francesca.” said Kevin Drees, director of animal collections.

Peevey announced Franny's arrival at the zoo's annual Hippo Holiday Sing-along on Saturday, KOCO, reported.

The hippo was transported from her previous home at the San Diego Zoo with funds from the FedEx Cares "Delivering for Good" initiative, KOCO reported.


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