Help Name Warthogs at Honolulu Zoo

What’s in a name? That which we call a…warthog? The Honolulu Zoo welcomed three newly-born warthogs to its home in May and need your help in naming them. The contest to name the two females and one male piglets ends Sept. 3, 2012.

The happy warthog family at Honolulu Zoo.

Maybe another Pumbaa-in-the-making from Disney’s The Lion King? Or what about Wally the Warthog? The possibilities are endless! It’s probably best to meet the piglets first in order to learn their personalities. Like naming your family pet, right? Part of the contest involves explaining why you’ve chosen that name, so be sure to take some notes during the observation period.

Because they nap often, it’s best to visit the keiki (kid) warthogs during the cooler parts of the day – early morning or late afternoon. That’d way, you’re more likely to see them at their “friskiest.” And let me tell you; your heart will melt at the sight of them. They’re so ugly that they’re actually pretty darn cute! Hard to imagine that they’ll be several hundred pounds a few years from now.

The winner will be announced on the zoo’s Facebook page, with a prize package of one family zoo membership, a $25 gift card for the concession stand and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Once named, the warthog piglets will be shipped off the island (sometime within the year). According to the zoo, they must be separated from their parents to prevent inbreeding problems.

ZOO WARTHOG NAMING CONTEST • Ends Sept. 3, 2012 • Honolulu Zoo, 151 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 • 808-971-7171 • www.honoluluzoo.org

Photo Credit: Honolulu City and County

Posted by: Bruce Fisher on Aug 2, 2012