Endangered hippo undergoes extensive examination at Zoo Miami after appearing lethargic

An endangered hippo underwent an extensive examination at Zoo Miami after in recent days displaying chosen lethargy and a reduced appetite The pygmy hippopotamus named Aubergine was born at Zoo Miami in August with a congenital defect that prevented the upper palate of his mouth from fully emerging This led to complications resulting from food passing from his mouth to his sinuses which could then find its way into his lungs leading to respiratory issues Over the years Aubergine has received a variety of treatments to help mitigate achievable complications which included an extensive procedure performed by plastic surgeons to help rebuild the hippo s upper palate though only with limited success Despite the limited success officers believe those treatments helped Aubergine survive and live a relatively normal and healthy life at the zoo Of late doctors at the zoo noticed Aubergine displayed selected lethargy and a reduced appetite and after not seeing any improvement following non-invasive treatments the decision was made to anesthetize him so the zoo s animal fitness unit can get a closer look His exam included radiographs ultrasound examinations and an endoscopy of his sinuses as well as blood collection Doctors managed to clear particular pieces of matter from his sinuses but determined no other obvious signs of abnormalities Aubergine has since recovered from the anesthesia and has gone back to his normal routine The zoo s staff will continue to closely monitor him and provide non-invasive treatments in hopes that his appetite will improve and he will fully recover from whatever caused his unique behavior