The Hippo and the Tortoise Who Became Friends After the Tsunami-Truth!
Summary of eRumor:
A story and pictures tell of a baby hippopotamus and a giant tortoise who linked up as friends after being displaced by the tsunami waves in Kenya, Africa.
The Truth:
This odd pairing really did happen.
According to numerous news accounts the hippo and the tortoise found each other at a wildlife refuge where they were taken after being stranded by the tsunami disaster.
According to the BBC, the hippo is about 1 year old and was found alone and dehydrated near the Indian Ocean in Kenya.
He was taken to a wildlife enclosure near Mombassa where keepers have named him Owen.
He and a 100-year-old tortoise named Mzee struck up a friendship and have been partners ever since.
Keepers say they are inseparable and that the tortoise has been mothering the baby hippo.
Updated 6/28/05