Baby Pygmy Hippo Moo Deng image credit-Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Thailand’s latest online sensation is an adorable baby pygmy hippo named Moo Deng. With her rosy cheeks, playful demeanor, and natural charisma, the two-month-old hippo has quickly gained millions of fans online, while also attracting larger crowds to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, located east of Bangkok. However, the increasing attention has raised concerns from zoo officials about the impact her sudden fame might have on her well-being.
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A Social Media Sensation
Moo Deng’s journey to stardom began when her keepers started posting videos and snippets of her daily life on social media. From gobbling up grapes to playfully rolling around and splashing in water under the hot Thai sun, Moo Deng’s cuteness has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. One particularly popular video, featuring the baby hippo yawning and enjoying a gentle chin scratch from her keeper, has amassed over 5.8 million views on Facebook.
Her playful antics have made her a star online, with one fan commenting, “A superstar was reincarnated as a hippo,” while another remarked, “She became famous the instant she was born.” Social media users cannot seem to get enough of the little hippo’s charm.
Crowds Flock to See Moo Deng
Moo Deng’s viral fame has also had a noticeable effect on the zoo’s attendance. According to Narongwit Chodchoy, the director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, visitor numbers have surged by 30% since Moo Deng’s rise to online stardom. Tourists now flock to catch a glimpse of the baby pygmy hippo, eagerly awaiting her energetic antics.
However, Narongwit expressed concerns about the impact of her fame on her everyday life. Some visitors have reportedly behaved inappropriately, including pouring water on her and even throwing objects at her while she lay on the ground. As a result, the zoo director has issued a warning, urging tourists to be respectful and vowing to take legal action against anyone harming Moo Deng.
Moo Deng’s Background and Name
Born on July 10 to her parents Jona and Tony, Moo Deng is the newest addition to the zoo’s pygmy hippo family. Her siblings, Moo Toon and Moo Warn, were also named after popular Thai food items, continuing the tradition of unique food-inspired names. “Moo Deng,” which means “bouncy pig” in Thai, is also the name of a common pork dish known for its chewiness. Her name was chosen by 20,000 Facebook users through a poll conducted by the zoo in August.
The Pygmy Hippo Species and Conservation
Pygmy hippos, native to West Africa, are smaller cousins of the full-sized hippopotamus. With only around 2,000 pygmy hippos remaining in the wild, mainly in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and the Ivory Coast, they are a species of concern. Moo Deng’s birth brings attention to the conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Best Time to See Moo Deng
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of Moo Deng at the zoo, Narongwit recommends visiting early in the morning, between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., when keepers clean her enclosure. “This will be the time Moo Deng will be energetic as the keeper will splash the water around,” he said. Another good time to observe her is in the afternoon when she follows her mother, Jona, as she is fed by the keepers. Moo Deng is notably clingy to her mother, showcasing the bond between them.
Managing Fame and Well-Being
While Moo Deng’s newfound fame has undoubtedly brought joy to countless people, it has also raised important questions about her well-being. The zoo’s director remains vigilant in protecting her from inappropriate behavior while ensuring her fans continue to enjoy the playful baby hippo responsibly. As her online presence continues to grow, Moo Deng’s story highlights the need for balancing fame with the care and respect all animals deserve.