Farewell commencement for the miniature equine, Toni
Toni, the beloved dwarf hippo from Berlin Zoo, is preparing to embark on a new adventure. The critically endangered pygmy hippo has been a social media sensation, with her Instagram following growing from 125,000 to around 254,000 during her time in Berlin.
Fans of Toni, both in Berlin and abroad, have been expressing their emotions as the time for her departure draws near. A retiree from Mariendorf in Berlin has watched Toni grow up, while a woman from Prague, Czech Republic, made the five-hour train journey to Berlin twice to see Toni before she leaves. There are even Toni fans in New York, with a lady planning to say goodbye to her this week.
Toni has been preparing for her move with daily "box training" for several weeks, and she was spoiled one last time with a shower and peanuts. The young hippo is moving to the zoo in Mulhouse, France, on the recommendation of the European breeding program.
The news of Toni's move has been met with a wave of reactions on social media, particularly on TikTok. Videos showcasing Toni before her move and the preparations for her relocation have received thousands of likes and dozens of comments, indicating a warm and engaged audience following her story.
Berlin Zoo is saying goodbye to Toni with a week-long "Toni Time" event, which started on August 22, 2025. During this week, fans from around the world are traveling to Berlin to say their farewells to the social media star. As Toni's time in Berlin comes to an end, everyone is eagerly awaiting her new beginning in Mulhouse.
References:
- Berlin Zoo announces Toni's move to Mulhouse Zoo
- Fans react to Toni's move on social media
- Berlin-based media cover Toni's move
- International media coverage of Toni's move
- TikTok video of Toni's preparations for the move
The community on TikTok has expressed their concern and interest in Toni's new environment at Mulhouse Zoo, following the announcement of her move. Many believe that this transition could significantly impact Toni's lifestyle, affecting her home-and-garden setting and potentially her pets.
Berlin Zoo's "Toni Time" event has further sparked discussions among admirers about Toni's shift in lifestyle and the impact it may have on her, considering the love and care she has received from the community during her stay in Berlin.
