In July 2024, a tiny pygmy hippo named Moo Deng was born at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Little did her caretakers know, this adorable calf would become an internet sensation within weeks. Her name, which means “bouncy pork,” was chosen by fans through an online poll, and it suits her playful, energetic nature perfectly.
Visitors Flock to See Her
Moo Deng’s popularity led to a surge in visitors at the zoo, with crowds tripling on weekends. Thousands have flocked to the zoo to catch a glimpse of the charming two-month-old, often queuing early in the morning. To manage this surge, the zoo has introduced restricted viewing times, allowing visitors just a few minutes to see Moo Deng during peak hours. This ensures the baby hippo isn’t overwhelmed by the attention.
Challenges of Fame
However, the hippo’s rise to fame hasn’t been without its challenges. Some visitors, eager for interaction, attempted to wake the baby hippo by splashing water or throwing objects into her enclosure. To protect Moo Deng, the zoo implemented strict rules, warning signs, and staff monitoring to prevent mistreatment. In response to this, the zoo is planning to introduce a 24-hour live stream so people can enjoy Moo Deng’s antics online without disturbing her.
Merchandising and the Future
The zoo has embraced Moo Deng’s popularity by launching a range of merchandise featuring the baby hippo, with proceeds directed toward animal care initiatives. They are also in the process of trademarking her name to safeguard her image from unauthorised commercial use. This not only protects Moo Deng but ensures the revenue will benefit other animals at the zoo.
