Poppy the pygmy hippo has made her public debut at the Metro Richmond Zoo

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The pygmy hippo Poppy has been released into the Hippo Haven Habitat at the Metro Richmond Zoo.

Like chicks after they hatch, Poppy and her mom, Iris, lived in a climate-controlled indoor habitat to ensure their safety.

"The outdoor habitat offers guests close-up views of the pygmy hippos on land and in water," a press release from the Metro Richmond Zoo reads. "The pool has an underwater viewing window where visitors can come face-to-face with Poppy as she swims alongside her mom."

According to the article, Poppy is nearly four months old and weighs around 80 pounds. By five months, she will be 10 times her birth weight.

Poppy and Iris are some of the few pygmy hippos remaining -- two out of 2,500 in the wild.

"We are proud Poppy has been raising awareness for her species and allowing us to raise funds for conservation efforts," the zoo said.

8NEWS MEETS POPPY: 8News gets behind-the-scenes look at new Poppy the pygmy hippo experience

Poppy has gained fans since being introduced on social media. Many people from Texas, Florida, Alaska, and other states have visited the Richmond Zoo to see Poppy.

To learn more about Poppy and the Hippo Habitat, visit their website.