One of Hippo's favorite places in the world is Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, DC. He heard rumors that they have a farm where they raise endangered animals. So in October we drove out to
Front Royal, Virginia to visit the critters during a special open house.
Lots of families with children were visiting too. But as far as we know, Hippo was the only hippo there.
It's important to protect delicate snouts from the sun.
Some big boys and girls played army on a hilltop. They galloped around, fired rifles, and hit targets with sabers while riding on horseback.
There was a long wait to see the rare clouded leopard cubs, so Hippo took the time to plan the rest of his visit.
The clouded leopards were worth the wait. They engaged in a wrestling match to keep us entertained.
Hippo found some chalk and left his mark on a wall.
He also left a message for the Zoo's recent graduate, Happy the Hippopotamus.
Hippo made friends with the local wildlife at the visitor center in Shenandoah National Park.
The view from Skyline Drive through the Park was spectacular.
. It's fascinating to see all the clever things that people have invented in America. Hippo got a few bright ideas of his own.
It was a little early on Hippo's visit in October to see much color in the trees. But he liked this bright orange one and thought it'd make a wonderful Jack o'Lantern.
These columns were part of the US Capitol for over a century. When the Capitol was expanded the columns were moved to an open field where they contrast beautifully against the sky.
In the quiet areas of the Arboretum, the trees act a little silly when they think nobody is watching. Hippo caught this one make shadow puppets with its leaves.
The wooly worms were busy getting ready for winter. Hippo noted a faint smell of grapes and apples emanating from their dens. They must be stocking up on food for months of cold and snow.
There's a Scratch & Sniff garden that Hippo likes to explore. Sometimes he rubs his paws in the mint and herbs so he can remind himself of the delicious smells when he gets home.
of Cake Wrecks so he'd stop getting my computer all sticky.
