A 55 anni Camilla batte ogni record e partorisce il suo quindicesimo cucciolo: “Nessuno avrebbe mai pensato che fosse ancora in grado di riprodursi”. La storia dell’ippopotama da record

A 55-year-old hippopotamus named Camilla has given birth to her 15th calf at the Parco Natura Viva in Bussolengo, Italy, setting a new record for longevity and reproductive capability among hippos in Europe. The newborn weighs approximately 50 kilograms and is in excellent health, despite the mother’s advanced age. Camilla's ability to reproduce again after such a long time has surprised experts and zookeepers alike, who had previously assumed she would no longer be able to bear offspring. Camilla’s latest calf marks a rare occurrence, especially considering the species' status as vulnerable to extinction according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This birth is believed to be the only one of its kind in Italy over the past five years, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts and breeding programs aimed at preserving the hippopotamus population. The calf’s arrival has drawn attention from wildlife conservationists and animal lovers around the world. The Parco Natura Viva, located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, has been home to Camilla since the early 2000s. Over the decades, she has become a symbol of resilience and adaptability within the park’s animal collection. Her previous births have contributed significantly to the genetic diversity of the hippopotamus population in captivity, helping to maintain healthy breeding lines. Each of her calves has been carefully monitored and raised under controlled conditions to ensure their survival and well-being. Camilla’s age is particularly noteworthy because female hippos typically reach sexual maturity around the age of seven and can give birth until they are about 40 years old. Beyond this point, reproduction becomes extremely rare due to the physical strain associated with childbirth and the aging process. However, Camilla defied these expectations, continuing to produce offspring well into her late 50s. Veterinarians and zoo staff have expressed admiration for her vitality and the successful management of her health throughout her life. The birth of the 15th calf has sparked discussions among researchers and conservationists regarding the potential for extending the reproductive lifespan of captive animals through improved care and medical interventions. Some scientists suggest that factors such as diet, environment, and stress levels play crucial roles in determining an animal’s ability to reproduce later in life. Camilla’s case provides valuable insights into how these elements can influence longevity and fertility in large mammals. Zoo officials have emphasized the significance of this event for both scientific research and public awareness. They hope that Camilla’s story will inspire greater interest in wildlife conservation and highlight the importance of protecting endangered species. The calf’s presence at the park also offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the growth and development of a young hippopotamus in a safe and educational setting. Conservationists have noted that while the global hippopotamus population remains stable in some regions, threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict continue to endanger the species. Breeding programs in zoos and sanctuaries play a vital role in maintaining genetic diversity and ensuring the survival of future generations. Camilla’s continued ability to reproduce serves as a reminder of the value of these initiatives and the need for sustained conservation efforts. The Parco Natura Viva plans to monitor the calf closely during its early months, providing necessary veterinary care and ensuring proper socialization with other hippos in the enclosure. As the calf grows, it will contribute to ongoing studies on hippopotamus behavior, physiology, and reproductive biology. Researchers are eager to learn more about the factors that allowed Camilla to remain fertile at such an advanced age, hoping to apply these findings to improve the management of aging animals in captivity.