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Moo Deng the Pygmy Hippo: Star Attraction at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in 2024

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Baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng at Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Prepare for a hefty dose of cuteness overload at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, where “Moo Deng,” the baby pygmy hippo, has become the star attraction! According to Attaporn Sriheran, the director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPOT), this tiny bundle of joy is set to captivate hearts for the next few months. But don’t worry, the zoo has already got exciting plans to keep the buzz alive, although Mr. Attaporn prefers to keep the next baby star a mystery for now.

This adorable two-month-old dynamo has single-handedly turned the usually tranquil zoo into a hub of excitement, especially in Chon Buri’s Si Racha district. Last weekend alone saw an unprecedented influx of curious visitors, pushing the count to a whopping 15,000 from the usual 2,000-3,000. The spectacle of Moo Deng prancing around is something no one wants to miss.

“The surge in visitors is phenomenal, and I expect this trend to continue for at least another three months,” said Mr. Attaporn. “Both weekdays and weekends have seen an upswing in numbers as people flock to catch a glimpse of Moo Deng.”

To accommodate the burgeoning crowd, the zoo has extended its operating hours from 7am to 5pm, a full hour earlier than usual. This provides ample time for eager visitors to line up and secure their tickets for a day of family fun.

What’s even more fascinating is how Moo Deng has turned into a global media sensation, amassing a growing international fan base. The name “Moo Deng” translates to “bouncy pig” in Thai and is also the moniker of a popular chewy pork dish. Cute, bouncy, and with a delightful name, it’s no wonder everyone’s enamored!

The name “Moo Deng” was a result of a Facebook poll conducted in August, attracting around 20,000 participants. She was born on July 10 to her devoted parents, Jona and Tony, who had previously entertained us with Moo Toon and Moo Warn, both named after delectable Thai dishes as well.

Kudos to Moo Deng’s caretaker who ingeniously created a Facebook page named “Ka Moo and the Gang.” The page has been a hit, chronicling Moo Deng’s journey from birth to becoming Thailand’s latest superstar. The viral posts and engaging photos have helped the baby hippo gain widespread popularity and immense public support.

On the care front, Moo Deng is still toothless and relies on her mother’s milk for nourishment. Once she grows a bit older, her diet will consist of grass and fruit, costing approximately 300–400 baht daily. Quite a small price to pay for all the happiness she brings!

35 Comments

  1. Sara L September 15, 2024

    Moo Deng is the cutest! I can’t wait to visit and see her in person.

    • JohnD83 September 15, 2024

      The zoo is exploiting this poor animal for profit. It’s sad!

      • Erica September 15, 2024

        They do take good care of her though. It’s not all bad.

      • Sara L September 15, 2024

        I think as long as she’s well-treated, it’s fine. Zoos can do a lot of good for conservation.

  2. WildlifeFan444 September 15, 2024

    The increase in visitors is a good sign that people care about animals. This can only help conservation efforts.

    • CynicalSam September 15, 2024

      Or it’s just people looking for a cute Instagram post. Unrealistic to think they care about conservation.

    • Tom P. September 15, 2024

      The attention can translate into donations and better funding for the zoo’s programs.

    • WildlifeFan444 September 15, 2024

      Exactly, Tom P. More visitors can lead to more awareness and resources for animal care.

  3. Kelly M September 15, 2024

    I’m glad Moo Deng is fostering international attention, but shouldn’t we be focusing on more pressing animal extinction issues?

    • JakeT September 15, 2024

      Every little bit helps. Highlighting one animal can encourage broader interest in wildlife.

    • EcoWarrior September 15, 2024

      But highlighting bigger issues like deforestation or poaching is more impactful than a single baby hippo.

  4. Liz September 15, 2024

    It’s heartwarming to see people unite around something so positive. We need more news like this.

  5. BCrazy September 15, 2024

    Moo Deng is adorable! I’m just concerned about the sudden surge in visitors and its impact on the zoo’s infrastructure. Can they handle it?

    • Tom P. September 15, 2024

      They extended their hours, but you’re right. They may need more permanent improvements.

    • Sara L September 15, 2024

      Good point, but zoos expect these spikes. I’m sure they’re planning for it.

  6. Sam R. September 15, 2024

    15,000 visitors in a weekend! That’s crazy. Hope it doesn’t become too overwhelming for Moo Deng.

    • AnneMarie September 15, 2024

      They need to ensure she has plenty of rest and downtime away from visitors.

    • Erica September 15, 2024

      I trust the zookeepers know what they’re doing. Moo Deng’s health should be their top priority.

  7. Ben G. September 15, 2024

    Is it just me, or does naming animals after food seem weird? She’s a living being, not a dish.

    • WildlifeFan444 September 15, 2024

      Cultural differences. The names make her more endearing to locals.

  8. EcoWarrior September 15, 2024

    Wouldn’t it be better if these animals were in the wild? Zoos just feel wrong to me.

    • JakeT September 15, 2024

      In a perfect world, yes. But for now, zoos offer protection and education.

  9. User123 September 15, 2024

    Isn’t keeping wild animals in zoos morally questionable? They belong in their natural habitats.

    • Tom P. September 16, 2024

      Zoos play a crucial role in conservation. Some species are alive today because of zoos.

    • Sara L September 16, 2024

      It’s a complicated issue. Zoos aren’t perfect, but they do a lot of good too.

  10. Gary D September 15, 2024

    Cute zoo animal or not, the zoo should focus on serious breeding programs to save endangered species.

  11. LunaLove September 16, 2024

    The viral Facebook page is genius! More zoos should do that to raise awareness and educate the public.

  12. HappyFeet September 16, 2024

    It’s impressive how much of an impact social media can have on something like this. Great for the zoo!

    • CynicalSam September 16, 2024

      Pity it’s often used for shallow purposes. At least this time it’s positive.

    • JohnD83 September 16, 2024

      Social media is a double-edged sword. Too much exposure might not be good for Moo Deng.

  13. User4567 September 16, 2024

    Jona and Tony must be proud parents! Their little one is taking the world by storm.

  14. SkyWatcher September 16, 2024

    While this is cute and all, there are more pressing environmental issues we should focus on.

  15. Tom P. September 16, 2024

    There’s a reason to appreciate the small victories. Moo Deng is bringing joy to many during tough times.

    • EcoWarrior September 16, 2024

      True, but let’s not lose sight of the bigger battle for conservation.

    • Sara L September 16, 2024

      Joy and awareness aren’t mutually exclusive. Moo Deng can inspire future conservationists.

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