Moo Deng, a two-month-old pygmy hippo from Thailand, has captured hearts worldwide with her adorable antics. The tiny hippo, whose name translates to “bouncy pig,” has amassed millions of views on social media, making her a bona fide internet celebrity.
Moo Deng was born on June 10th at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, to parents Jona and Tony. Her popularity skyrocketed when zookeeper Atthapon Nundee began posting videos of her on social media during the pandemic. The public was instantly smitten with her playful personality and charming antics, whether she was being sprayed with water, carried by zookeepers, or simply lounging in her enclosure.
Moo Deng’s fame has had a tangible impact on the zoo, with weekend attendance soaring to between 6,000 and 7,000 visitors. Her cuteness has even inspired beauty trends, fan art, and zoo merchandise, solidifying her status as a cultural phenomenon.
However, with Moo Deng’s increasing popularity, a darker side emerged. Reports of tourists harassing the baby hippo surfaced, raising concerns about the potential for harm to this endangered species. Videos showed visitors throwing food and other objects at Moo Deng, attempting to get her attention. In one disturbing video, a visitor can be seen pouring water on the sleeping hippo.
The zoo has responded by strengthening security measures around Moo Deng’s enclosure and issuing a public warning against disruptive behavior. The zoo director, Narongwit Chodchoi, emphasized that such actions are not only cruel but also dangerous, threatening legal action against visitors who continue to harass the baby hippo.
Moo Deng’s story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the fine line between public fascination and the well-being of animals in captivity. While her cuteness has brought joy to millions, it has also shown how easily public obsession can lead to harmful behavior. The zoo’s efforts to protect Moo Deng are a testament to the importance of prioritizing the welfare of animals in the face of increasing public interest.
