ABQ BioPark's hippo, Moe, dies at 52

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

The ABQ BioPark is mourning the loss of Moe, its beloved male Nile hippo, who passed away Sunday at the age of 52.

Moe had called the BioPark home for over two decades and was the oldest male Nile hippo in facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. He recently set a record as the oldest father of a new calf.

Moe's most recent offspring, a female calf named Maisy, was born on Oct. 14 with his partner, Karen.

Throughout his life, Moe sired four calves, including his 4-year-old daughter, Matilda, and played an active, nurturing role in their lives. Known for his gentle nature and calm demeanor, Moe captivated guests and staff alike, often seen allowing his young daughters to rest on his back or cuddle close for naps.

In recent days, Moe experience