Pictures: Paignton Zoo celebrates birth of red river hog piglets

Paignton Zoo has welcomed three new arrivals this autumn, as red river hogs Winnie and Humphrey - dubbed the zoo’s “power couple” - celebrated the birth of their third litter.

The piglets, born on 14 September, are believed to include two males and one female. Visitors can already spot them in their enclosure opposite the giraffes, where they have been seen scampering about under the watchful eyes of their parents.

Recognisable by their distinctive striped coats, the piglets are at their most eye-catching during their first few months of life before the markings fade. Keepers say this makes autumn an ideal time to visit the zoo.

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Sian Foster, Mammals Keeper at Paignton Zoo, said: “At just a couple weeks old, these tiny piglets are already displaying the wonderful curiosity and playfulness that makes them so adorable. Visitors hoping to catch them at their absolute cutest should come soon – they grow surprisingly fast!”

Unlike many species, red river hogs are known for their unique family life. Both males and females take an active role in raising young, a behaviour clearly seen in Winnie and Humphrey, who have now successfully co-parented three litters together.

Sian added: “What makes these animals so special is how similar they are to us humans in their approach to family life. Red river hogs are monogamous and both parents are equally involved in childcare. Winnie and Humphrey are true partners in every sense, and having successfully co-parented three litters, they’re clearly a match made in heaven!”

Native to central and western Africa, red river hogs are classed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. However, wild populations face threats from hunting for the bushmeat trade and conflict with farmers.

The piglets represent a further success for Paignton Zoo’s breeding programme and a rare opportunity for visitors to see the early stages of this charismatic species’ development.