RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A new experience has opened up at the Metro Richmond Zoo that offers people the chance to meet Poppy the pygmy hippo, and 8News got a behind-the-scenes look. For those curious about the new exclusive experience, and looking to do their part in helping save the endangered species, 8News can help you know what to expect. (Photo: Mark Morales, 8News) The Experience When you first enter Poppy's indoor habitat, you're met with a hot, humid wave of air that smells like, well, a barn! Don't let that deter you, you're mere steps away from getting to meet and feed Poppy as well as her mother Iris. An employee at the zoo will walk you through the various safety measures to keep yourself and the hippos out of harm's way, and then you'll slip into the provided waders and head into the water. You'll be given various leafy greens and you'll get to watch Iris chomp away. When Poppy sees her mom eat she'll wait somewhat impatiently for her turn. Although she doesn't have teeth quite yet, she makes a good effort in trying to munch what she can. (Photo: Mark Morales, 8News) Poppy might need some physical support too, as her small size makes it a little more difficult for her to get leverage, meaning that you might have to literally hold her hand so she can keep her head above water to eat. To enjoy the experience yourself, it costs $175 per person which gets you 30 minutes with Poppy and Iris. There is a maximum of four people allowed for each experience and a two-person minimum. For more information about how to reserve the experience and a detailed list of policies, expectations and safety procedures, click here. (Photo: Mark Morales, 8News) Help protect Poppy According to the Metro Richmond Zoo website, a portion of the money that people pay for the experience will go towards helping pygmy hippos that are out in the wild. They also feature a link on their website to the conservation charity Fauna & Flora, where people can donate directly to the cause. (Photo: Mark Morales, 8News) Additionally, as part of a Run Wild Races series, there will be a race event on May 3 at the Metro Richmond Zoo where people can run to celebrate and bring awareness to Poppy and pygmy hippos in general. People can choose from a 1-mile race, a 5K or a 2-mile obstacle course. All of the proceeds from the race will go towards efforts to help pygmy hippos. For more information, and to register, click here. (Photo: Mark Morales, 8News)