Conservation Center

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.