A baby pygmy hippo named Moo-Deng has captured hearts across social media, becoming a viral sensation not only in Thailand but around the globe. From Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand, Moo-Deng gained immense popularity through adorable footage shared on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Her playful antics, including nibbling on her zookeeper and wobbling around her enclosure, have earned her legions of devoted fans.
The Rise of a Social Media Star
Moo-Deng’s fame didn’t happen overnight. The zoo’s dedicated TikTok account, which boasts 2.5 million followers, has been instrumental in spreading her charm. Her videos show her adorable, rosy-cheeked face, playful behavior, and interactions with zookeepers, which have captivated hundreds of thousands of viewers. Fans have taken to social media to share their love for Moo-Deng, even creating cakes and artwork in her image.
Her impact has extended beyond fan creations. Brands have jumped on the trend, with one cosmetics company launching a campaign inspired by Moo-Deng’s cartoonish blush, encouraging followers to “wear your blush like a baby hippo.” Even major media outlets have taken notice, with Time magazine’s website dubbing Moo-Deng an “Icon” and “Legend.”
An Icon with a Bouncy Personality
Moo-Deng’s playful nature is just as captivating as her viral fame. Atthapon Nundee, a zookeeper at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, has been documenting her life on social media. The name “Moo-Deng” means “bouncy pork,” a playful nod to her character. Atthapon has described her as living up to her name, noting that her behavior is as lively and endearing as her online presence suggests.
Moo-Deng’s siblings also carry names tied to Thai pork dishes, adding another layer of humor to the family. Her half-sisters, Moo Wan and Pha Lor, along with her brother, Moo Tun, all contribute to the charm that has made this family of hippos a beloved part of the zoo’s animal collection.
A Global Phenomenon with Local Concerns
As Moo-Deng’s popularity continues to grow, so do concerns over her welfare. Increased visitor numbers at the zoo have led to troubling behavior from some tourists. Reports emerged of visitors disturbing the baby pygmy hippo by throwing water and objects at her in an attempt to capture photos.
Zoo authorities have swiftly addressed these incidents, installing CCTV cameras and stationing an officer to monitor Moo-Deng’s enclosure. Atthapon has emphasized that Moo-Deng, like all young animals, spends most of her time resting. At just two months old, she weighs over 20 kg and is still nursing from her mother. She is expected to start eating grass in the coming months.
The Importance of Conservation
While Moo-Deng enjoys her online fame, there is an underlying message about the conservation of pygmy hippos. These animals are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 2,500 remaining in the wild. Native to West Africa, pygmy hippos face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and human activities like mining and logging.
The attention Moo-Deng has garnered could play a vital role in raising awareness about the plight of her species. Atthapon hopes that the visibility provided by her online presence will encourage people to learn more about the challenges pygmy hippos face and the efforts needed to protect them in the wild.
Moo-Deng’s Role in Conservation Efforts
Like many other institutions, Khao Kheow Open Zoo contributes to conservation work by keeping animals like Moo-Deng in environments that replicate their natural habitats. While some experts, such as Edwin Wiek from Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, question the need for breeding pygmy hippos in captivity, Atthapon believes that Moo-Deng’s cuteness and fame could help draw attention to crucial conservation efforts.