Newest hippo addition at Werribee Open Range Zoo has stepped out

THE newest hippo addition at Werribee Open Range Zoo has shrugged off her shyness and posed for her first photos.

The yet-to-be-named hippo calf with its mother Brindabella at the Werribee Open Range Zoo. Picture: Carol Fraser

THE newest hippo addition at Werribee Open Range Zoo has shrugged off her shyness to step out in full public view.

Having been kept in a private enclosure to ensure bonding between mother and child, the yet-to-be named calf and mum Brindabella have been moved to a larger pond.

The seven-week-old has ventured out of the water to strut her stuff for an adoring holiday crowd.

Werribee zoo spokeswoman Meaghan Crozier said both mother and calf were doing well.

"They're both doing all the right things," she said.

The cheeky and inquisitive calf rarely comes out of the water to parade around.

"The calf is becoming quite cheeky and inquisitive but she still won't venture too far from mum, and mum is doing well and staying calm too."

Although she weighs 50kg, the calf only looks to be about half the size of her mother's head.

Visitors can view the pond during one of the Zoo's Safari Tours which are included in general admission.

"They spend most of their day in the water so we can't guarantee visitors will see the baby," Ms Crozier said.

"But she does have to bob up for air so keep an eye on the water."

The calf is expected to be named in the coming weeks.