We are sad to report that Prince Harry, the rare baby pygmy hippo who attracted worldwide attention for his cuteness and royal moniker, died after suffering complications during an operation on Wednesday.
Harry, who was born on March 22, had surgery on to repair an umbilical hernia that had the potential to cause gut strangulation, according to the Cango Wildlife Ranch where he was born. But at the end of the operation Harry went into respiratory arrest which then led to heart failure.
At birth Harry was abandoned by his mother Hilda, only to be adopted by staff - including Toni Inggs, his "mother" - at the ranch, who are now "devastated" by his death.
Wildlife experts estimate that there are fewer than 3,000 pygmy hippos left in the wild.
"In Harry’s short life, he managed to raise much needed awareness for his species and their plight in the wild, and CangoWildlife Ranch will continue to fly the flag of awareness for this species in honour of Harry’s life," the ranch said in the announcement on its website.
In his short life, Harry found fans around the world, thanks to his Twitter handle and Facebook page that more than 1,300 people "liked."
"When an animal loves us so unconditionally, I believe it is our duty to be a human worthy of them," commented Matthew Peters on Facebook upon hearing of Harry's death. "In every way, Toni, you showed Harry the best life can offer."
Others were disappointed to learn that they would never have the opportunity to meet Harry in person.
"After hearing so much about him I was really looking forward to meeting him this summer," commented Akiva Silberklang on Facebook. "I hope the other animals help you through this time of sorrow. May he rest in peace."
Leave your condolences for Harry's handlers in the comments below.
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