Khao Kheow Open Zoo has become a whirlwind of excitement, all thanks to its latest star, Moo Deng. This adorable two-month-old baby pygmy hippo has captured hearts worldwide, leading the zoo to initiate live streaming sessions dedicated entirely to her. From September 1st to 19th alone, the zoo experienced an overwhelming influx of visitors, raking in over 12 million baht. The zoo’s director, Narongwit Chodchoy, projects that this interest will skyrocket their annual earnings to a staggering 200 million baht, with an expected one million visitors by the end of their fiscal year this month.
Mr. Narongwit revealed that the public’s obsession with Moo Deng has caused a remarkable 50% rise in zoo attendance. Between September 1st and 19th, a whopping 81,786 people visited Khao Kheow Open Zoo, contributing to the phenomenal 12.97 million baht in ticket sales. With forecasts setting high expectations, the zoo is set to welcome over one million visitors, translating to over 200 million baht in revenue by the end of this fiscal year.
The Moo Deng mania isn’t just confined to local fans; Mr. Narongwit expects a surge of international visitors, particularly from countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. To cater to this expansive fan base, the zoo has launched 24-hour live streams on zoodiolive.com. Now, enthusiasts from around the globe can watch the enchanting antics of Moo Deng and her zoo companions live. On a single Friday night, about 44,000 viewers tuned in to catch a glimpse of these delightful creatures.
For those who prefer the real-life experience, the best time to see Moo Deng is in the early morning from 7:45 AM to 9 AM when she joyfully runs and jumps around her pen while the diligent zoo staff cleans her space. Another peak time is in the afternoon during her mother Jona’s feeding session. However, due to overwhelming interest, the zoo has implemented a queuing system. Each visitor is allotted a five-minute window to marvel at Moo Deng, but fret not! If you haven’t had your fill, you’re welcome to queue up again for another turn.
The Moo Deng phenomenon has even caught the eye of the glamorous world of Formula 1. Recently, organizers of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix sent an official invitation for Moo Deng to attend the race next year in Florida. This gesture underscores the widespread adoration for the baby pygmy hippo, transcending beyond the animal kingdom into the world of international motorsport.
Capitalizing on Moo Deng’s popularity, the zoo has ventured into merchandising. The first lot of 700 Moo Deng T-shirts, sold exclusively at the Green Mountain restaurant within the zoo, was priced at a modest 329 baht. Needless to say, these shirts are flying off the shelves, allowing fans to carry a piece of Moo Deng with them wherever they go.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s live streams and merchandise are set to elevate the already feverish Moo Deng craze to dizzying new heights. So, whether you’re planning a visit to the zoo or tuning in from the comfort of your home, Moo Deng is sure to bring a smile to your face and melt your heart with her irresistibly cute antics. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this delightful experience!
It’s incredible how much one little hippo can boost tourism! This just goes to show the power of cute animals in marketing.
Animals being used like this is exploitation. They belong in the wild, not on display for our amusement.
But without zoos, many species would be extinct. Zoos play a crucial role in conservation.
I think there’s a balance to be struck. Zoos need to prioritize animal well-being over profit.
Who knew a hippo would draw in more crowds than top-tier attractions! It’s mind-boggling.
Absolutely! The fascination with Moo Deng is a testament to how effective animal marketing can be.
This kind of economic boost is exactly what zoos need, especially post-pandemic. It’s a win-win for the zoo and tourists!
But are we overlooking the ethical implications here? Should we really be celebrating this?
Ethics aside, sans visitors and revenue, a lot of zoos would shut down and animals might be worse off.
Just got my Moo Deng T-shirt last week! It’s adorable. Anyone else buy one?
It’s so cute! Though, I wonder about the environmental impact of producing so many T-shirts.
Same here! I wear it every weekend. A small investment for such a memorable piece.
Am I the only one concerned about the animal’s wellbeing with so many visitors and constant live streams?
Good question, Sarah. It’s important that the zoo ensures Moo Deng isn’t stressed by all the attention.
I’d like to believe that the zoo is taking measures to ensure her comfort and health.
The Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix invite is wild! That’s reaching a whole new level of celebrity.
How often does a baby hippo get to represent in the sports world? This is just too funny and cute!
People need to stop anthropomorphizing animals. Moo Deng doesn’t care about Formula 1 or the T-shirts!
Can’t wait to visit the zoo and see Moo Deng in person! This article is making me plan my trip right now.
Same! Booking my tickets today. Hopefully, she’s as cute in person as online.
I’m sure! She’s adorable from every angle.
This might bring in bucks, but at what cost to the environment? All those visitors are bound to leave a carbon footprint.
Moo Deng is a phenomenon! That’s just how influential social media and live streaming have become.
Glad to see tourism rebounding, but let’s make sure the zoo prioritizes Moo Deng’s health first.
I hope the zoo uses the extra funds to improve the habitats of other less popular animals too.
It’s an ingenious way to keep people connected to wildlife, especially for those who can’t visit.
Let’s hope the zoo invests the profits into conservation projects. Otherwise, it’s just commodification.
I think the queuing system is a fair way to manage the crowd. It ensures everyone gets a chance.
Yeah, but I wouldn’t like to wait in line more than once for just five minutes of viewing!
Can the novelty of Moo Deng sustain the interest for the long term, though?
Moo Deng is cute, but I hope the zoo doesn’t exploit her too much for profit.
I think it’s wonderful that people are finding joy in life again, thanks to an unexpected source like Moo Deng.
Tourism boosts are great, but what measures are in place to protect the animals and their environment?
I can’t believe how much a baby hippo is changing the economics of an entire zoo!
This is nothing more than a fleeting trend. What happens when people lose interest?
Moo Deng is giving so many people hope and happiness. That’s invaluable, especially these days.