FOLLOWING in the footsteps of Robert Burns, Edinburgh Zoo has made their Address to a Haggis, celebrating their aptly named pygmy hippo born in October last year.
Using a Robert Burns impersonator, the zoo has paid homage to both the beloved hippo and the Scottish tradition of reciting Burns’ Address to a Haggis on the anniversary of his birthday.
The pygmy hippo is one of the most popular residents at the zoo, deemed Edinburgh’s answer to Thailand’s viral Moo Deng.
The species is native to West Africa and is an endangered species facing a “very high risk of extinction in the wild”, according to Edinburgh Zoo’s adoption page.
In a video posted to their website and social media the poem is recited in the style of Robert Burns, with lines such as: “But noo, there’s joy that fills the air,
“A wee bairn born, a creature rare,
“A wee hippo, small an’ sweet,
“Wi’ stubby legs an’ muddy feet.”
The zoo posted on social media yesterday, saying: “We’re celebrating Burns Night early, with our very own Robert Burns impersonator, who has delivered a delightful ode to Haggis.
“In honour of the Bard’s way with words, our new take on the Address to a Haggis is a toast to both Scottish tradition and one of our most beloved zoo residents.
“You can adopt Haggis and her family”.
The post has received 289 likes and 18 comments with locals praising the adorable creature.
One user said: “Personally, we’re big fans.”
Another replied: “That was a lovely Ode to Haggis.
“I love following her, thank you.”
A third commented: “Bonny wee hippo”.
