Iris and “New Deng” (trademark pending) have been relocated to a private hay-filled enclosure for the time being, which will allow them to properly bond, zoo officials said. Eventually, the calf will move into the zoo’s publicly viewable indoor pool exhibit, where it will probably endear itself to adoring fans eager for more baby hippo content.

For $175 the Metro Richmond Zoo will let you wade into its pygmy hippo enclosure for an up close and personal hippo experience. Why it matters: The money gets you the chance at 30 minutes with Poppy and her mom Iris — from the secure side of a safe barrier.

On Tuesday, the Metro Richmond Zoo launched a new experience where guests can meet America’s sweetheart up close and personal.

The Metro Richmond Zoo has launched a new experience that allows visitors to meet Poppy, the baby endangered pygmy hippo, up close and personal.