Meet Jessica: The Rescued Hippo Who Stole Hearts

Jessica the Hippo: A Remarkable Tale of Resilience and Love

In the year 2000, amidst the devastating floods that wreaked havoc in Mozambique and South Africa, a heartwarming story unfolded along the banks of the Blyde River. A young, emaciated hippo was discovered clinging to life, having been swept downstream by the relentless currents. This is the extraordinary tale of Jessica the Hippo, a remarkable creature whose story has touched the hearts of many.

It was Tonie and Shirley Joubert who stumbled upon the helpless baby hippo, barely alive and in desperate need of care. Without hesitation, they took her in and dedicated themselves to rehabilitating her. Over time, Jessica grew stronger and healthier, forming an unbreakable bond with her rescuers and the local community.

Today, Jessica is a living testament to the power of compassion and resilience. Visitors from near and far flock to the Joubert’s home in Hoedspruit, South Africa, to witness this incredible creature up close and personal. For a small entrance fee, individuals of all ages have the opportunity to feed, touch, and play with Jessica the Hippo.

The entrance fee for this once-in-a-lifetime experience is R75 per person, with a reduced rate of R30 for children between the ages of 6 and 12. Children under the age of 6 can enter for free, making it an affordable outing for families seeking a unique adventure.

Spending time with Jessica is an unforgettable experience. As you approach her enclosure, you are immediately struck by her imposing size and gentle demeanor. Her dark, soulful eyes seem to hold within them the wisdom and resilience acquired through her journey from the brink of death to the heart of a loving family.

Feeding Jessica is an interactive activity that allows visitors to connect with her on a personal level. As you offer her food, you can feel the gentle touch of her lips, a reminder of the trust and bond that has formed between this extraordinary creature and her human caretakers.

But it’s not just feeding that makes a visit with Jessica so special. Visitors can also have the opportunity to touch and play with her, under the watchful eye of the Joubert family. This hands-on experience allows for a truly unique and intimate connection with one of nature’s most fascinating creatures.

The story of Jessica the Hippo resonates with people from all walks of life. It serves as a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of survival. Jessica has become an ambassador for her species, reminding us of the importance of conservation and the need to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.

So, if you find yourself in South Africa, don’t miss the chance to meet Jessica the Hippo. Step into her world, and let her story inspire and touch your heart. Discover the resilience of one incredible animal, and leave with a renewed appreciation for the beauty and wonder of our natural world.

Is Jessica The Hippo Alive?

Jessica the Hippo is alive. She was rescued during the floods in 2000 and found alive and intact on the banks of the Blyde River.

jessica hippo

What Is The Story Of Jessica The Hippo?

Jessica the Hippo is a remarkable animal with an inspiring story. Found as a young and malnourished calf on the banks of the Blyde River in South Africa, she was fortunate enough to be taken in by Tonie and Shirley Joubert who dedicated themselves to her rehabilitation.

The Jouberts, who are renowned for their love and care for wildlife, worked tirelessly to nurse Jessica back to health. They provided her with the necessary care, feeding her a special formula and ensuring she received the proper medical attention. Over time, Jessica’s health improved, and she began to thrive under their care.

As Jessica grew older, she developed a deep bond with the Jouberts, considering them her surrogate parents. She became a part of their family and lived on their property, which was adjacent to the river where she was found. Jessica’s story began to spread, and she soon became a local celebrity, attracting attention and visitors from far and wide.

What makes Jessica’s story truly remarkable is her ability to touch the hearts of those who meet her. Despite being a wild animal, she displays an incredible level of trust and affection towards humans. Many people have been moved by her gentle nature and her ability to form deep connections with those around her.

Jessica’s story has been documented in various books and films, further sharing her incredible journey with the world. She has become an ambassador for wildlife conservation, inspiring others to appreciate and protect these magnificent creatures.

Jessica the Hippo’s story is one of resilience, love, and the power of human-animal connections. Found in a dire state, she was given a second chance at life by the Jouberts and has since become an iconic figure in the realm of wildlife conservation. Her extraordinary story continues to touch the hearts of people worldwide.

How Much Does It Cost To See Jessica The Hippo?

To see Jessica the hippo, there is an entrance fee of R75 per person. Additionally, children between the ages of 6 and 12 will be charged a fee of R30. However, children under the age of 6 can enter for free. Here is a breakdown of the entrance fees:

– Adults (13 years and above): R75
– Children (6-12 years): R30
– Children (under 6 years): Free

Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the latest pricing information before visiting. We invite you to come down and experience the opportunity to feed, touch, and play with Jessica the Hippo.

Conclusion

Jessica the Hippo is truly an extraordinary animal with a remarkable story. Rescued from the devastating floods in South Africa, she has captured the hearts of people around the world. Her journey from emaciation to rehabilitation is a testament to the compassion and dedication of her caretakers, the Joubert family.

Visiting Jessica at the Jessica Hippo Wildlife Orphanage is an experience that should not be missed. For a small entrance fee, visitors have the opportunity to feed, touch, and even play with this gentle giant. The chance to interact with such a unique and lovable creature is both educational and awe-inspiring.

Not only does a visit to Jessica provide an up-close encounter with a hippo, but it also supports the important work of the orphanage. The funds generated from the entrance fees contribute to the care and well-being of Jessica, as well as other animals in need.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, animal lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, a visit to Jessica the Hippo is a must. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals and the impact that compassion and care can have on their lives.

So, make sure to plan a trip to the Jessica Hippo Wildlife Orphanage and be prepared to be amazed by the incredible bond between humans and animals. Immerse yourself in Jessica’s world and leave with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of nature.

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Ilona

Ilona is an experienced travel counselor who loves everything about Africa! She studied Tourism and Hospitality Management at Middle Tennessee State University, and now lives in Nashville. With 15 years of experience under her belt, Ilona is well-equipped to plan your perfect African adventure.