Resident hippopotamuses, or hippos, are sharing their kisses with the community from the Greater Vancouver Zoo.
Hazina (21 years old) and Habey (19 years old), the hippo sisters at the Aldergrove zoo, had some fun creating their own hippo kisses, said Michael Jacobsen, marketing and communications manager.
"We use non-toxic, safe paint to gently encourage them to press their massive lips onto a canvas, leaving behind unique, one-of-a-kind prints. It's a great way to engage their minds and create something beautiful in the process," he explained.
Funds from the paintings will be used to purchase a large, heavy-duty toy for the hippos, crafted from animal safe materials, Jacobsen added.
"As wild hippo populations face growing threats from habitat loss and illegal hunting, your generosity helps ensure that we can continue providing them with the care, enrichment, and protection they need," Jacobsen said.
Only 40 paintings are available, and can be purchased for $100 each through the zoo's website at gvzoo.com.
