Japanese Zoo Misgenders A Hippo For 7 Years
A zoo in Japan has misgendered a hippo for seven years! It turns out the Hippo, named Gen-Chan, isn’t a male after all! She turns out to be female, and the Osaka Tennoji Zoo just figured that out. It took them almost a decade, but, hey, good for them for finally getting it all sorted out. The zoo better be careful before she lawyers up and sues for “breach of fiduciary duty” and “negligent misrepresentation.” She might not let them off the hook for this hippo-critical error!
Gen-Chan
When Gen-chan, a young hippopotamus, arrived at Osaka Tennoji Zoo from Mexico’s Africam Safari in 2017, the paperwork stated that she was a male, and this assumption went unquestioned given her young age. However, as Gen-chan matured, doubts emerged among zookeepers regarding her assigned gender due to the absence of typical male hippo characteristics. The initial assumption of Gen-chan’s gender led to a growing curiosity about her true identity as she grew up.
Growing Suspicions
Over time, zookeepers began noticing discrepancies in Gen-chan’s behavior and physical characteristics that contradicted her assumed gender. These discrepancies, such as the absence of male reproductive organs and the lack of typical male hippo behaviors, sparked suspicions about the accuracy of the initial paperwork. Zoo staff then more closely observed Gen-chan, noting behaviors that deviated from typical male hippopotamuses.
DNA Test
After years of speculation and uncertainty, the zoo decided to conduct a DNA test to determine Gen-chan’s gender definitively. This decision stemmed from a desire to resolve the ongoing speculation surrounding Gen-chan’s identity and provide clarity to both zoo staff and visitors. With the DNA test, the zoo hoped to put an end to the mystery surrounding Gen-chan’s gender.
Confirmation
The DNA test results confirmed what many had suspected: Gen-chan was actually female, not male, as previously believed based on the initial paperwork. This confirmation brought clarity to the situation and validated the observations made by zookeepers regarding Gen-chan’s behavior and physical characteristics. With Gen-chan’s true gender now confirmed, the zoo could tend to her specific needs.
No Name Change
Despite acknowledging Gen-chan’s true gender, the zoo kept her male name, citing the bond between Gen-chan and staff and visitors. By keeping her male name, the zoo aimed to honor Gen-chan’s identity as she had come to be known and loved by her visitors over the years.
Learning From Mistakes
Recognizing the importance of accurate sex determination in zoos, the zoo pledged to take steps to prevent similar errors in the future. Gen-chan’s misgendering showed the need for improved protocols and procedures when determining the sex of zoo animals.
A Trend Emerges
Gen-chan’s case is not an isolated incident, as another Japanese zoo recently admitted to misgendering a lion. By learning from these experiences, zoos can ensure accurate information about the animals under their care.
Future
Zoo officials emphasized their commitment to improving staff training and education to ensure the accuracy of such assessments in the future. This will hopefully improve the animals’ well-being and visitor experiences.
47-Year-Old Voyager 1 Suddenly Resumes Communication With Earth
47-Year-Old Voyager 1 Suddenly Resumes Communication With Earth
America’s Founding Fathers Were How Young In 1776?
