Hippo Harbor 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

Hippo Harbor is an institution located at 1 Government Drive in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. The institution focuses on educating visitors about the unique characteristics and importance of hippos in their ecosystems. Hippos, with their aquatic lifestyle, have adapted features such as eyes and ears on top of their head, nostrils that close when submerged, and a protective pink "slime" on their skin. Despite their buoyancy and ability to hold their breath for five minutes, hippos cannot swim and instead bounce off submerged surfaces.

Hippos play a crucial role in their ecosystems, creating paths for other animals, maintaining grazing grounds, and providing nutrients for fish through their dung. Unfortunately, hippos face a high risk of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and the ivory trade. The Saint Louis Zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for river hippos, working with other zoos to ensure the survival of the species.

Visitors to Hippo Harbor can explore the immersive River's Edge exhibit, which showcases wildlife, plants, and people from four continents and highlights the interactions between them. Join us on a journey along a mythical waterway to learn more about the fascinating world of hippos and their importance in the ecosystem.