Moo Deng: Thailand zoo's celebrity baby pygmy hippo

Baby Hippo Goes Viral, Faces Unexpected Costs

Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of that section: Khao Kheow Open Zoo is an expansive wildlife park located in Thailand. It offers visitors the chance to see a variety of animals in a naturalistic environment. Unlike traditional zoos, this open zoo allows for a more interactive experience, where guests can observe many species roaming freely within spacious enclosures. The park is dedicated to conservation and education, making it a great destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo reports that since Moo Deng was born in July, the number of visitors has increased twofold.

A baby hippo is creating a buzz among fans in Thailand.

Moo Deng, which can be interpreted as "bouncy pig," is a two-month-old female pygmy hippopotamus that has taken the internet by storm and is drawing large crowds at a zoo close to Pattaya.

According to Khao Kheow Open Zoo, the number of visitors has increased twofold since her arrival in July.

However, the director of the zoo has appealed to the public to act respectfully when visiting Moo Deng, following the release of videos that revealed some visitors mistreating the animal.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is an expansive wildlife park that offers visitors an immersive experience with nature and animals. Unlike traditional zoos, this open zoo focuses on conservation and education, allowing for closer interactions with a variety of species in a naturalistic setting. It promotes awareness about wildlife and emphasizes the importance of protecting endangered animals. The zoo features a range of exhibits, where visitors can observe animals in environments that resemble their natural habitats. It's a fantastic destination for family outings, providing both fun and educational opportunities.

The zoo director has encouraged visitors to act appropriately while they come to see Moo Deng.

"According to Narongwit Chodchoi in a statement shared online, these actions are not just callous but also pose significant risks."

"We need to safeguard these animals and make sure they live in a safe and pleasant habitat."

Social media videos depict some guests attempting to wake Moo Deng by tossing shellfish at her and splashing water on her to get her to stir from her slumber.

Mr. Narongwit mentioned that the zoo has set up surveillance cameras around the animal enclosures and warned that they would take legal action against anyone who harms the baby hippo.

He mentioned that the ideal time to see Moo Deng is while she's awake.

Pygmy hippos, also referred to as dwarf hippos, are originally found in West Africa and are considered "endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Specialists estimate that fewer than 3,000 of these creatures remain in their natural habitat.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a unique wildlife park located in Thailand. It offers visitors an opportunity to see a variety of animals in a more natural setting compared to traditional zoos. The open-concept design allows guests to observe and interact with different species in spacious enclosures. Additionally, the zoo emphasizes conservation and education, providing insights into the animals' habitats and behaviors. With numerous activities and exhibits, it's an ideal destination for families and animal lovers alike.

According to experts, there are now fewer than 3,000 pygmy hippos left in their natural habitat.

This small hippo's cute build and plump shape have created a passionate fanbase on the internet.

"I'm completely taken with Moo Deng - I've had thoughts of this amazing queen on my mind all day," shared a user on X.

Another person mentioned, "The only thing I’m aware of happening in the world right now is Moo Deng."

Khao Kheow Open Zoo, situated roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Bangkok, has definitely taken advantage of the buzz generated by the famous hippo.

Since her arrival, 128 out of the last 150 social media updates from the zoo have featured Moo Deng.

You can now buy a variety of products, including a shirt and pants set inspired by hippos, either at the zoo or through our website.

Other companies are also hopping on the trend. Beauty retailer Sephora previously released an ad featuring a collection of blushes inspired by Moo Deng, encouraging customers to "apply your blush like a baby hippo would."

You can get the "Soft Pop Powder Blush" for THB 1,590, which is about $47.70 or £36.30.

Beauty retailer Sephora has introduced a new collection of blushes inspired by Moo Deng.

Moo Deng has been gaining attention in conventional media as well.

This week, she stepped onto the international stage for the first time on television when a team from All-Nippon News Network, a Japanese TV station, came to the zoo to shoot a segment about the hippo star.

The Royal Thai Embassy has enthusiastically shared the trending subject, Moo Deng, on its social media platforms.

On Thursday, the embassy shared on X: "She has a lot of energy, and her adorable look is comforting."

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a unique wildlife sanctuary that offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with a variety of animals in their natural habitats. Unlike traditional zoos, this open zoo focuses on creating a more natural environment for its residents, allowing for a more authentic experience. Here, guests can enjoy a day of exploration and discovery, learning about animal conservation and the importance of protecting wildlife. Whether you’re taking a guided tour or wandering the grounds on your own, Khao Kheow Open Zoo provides an unforgettable experience for animal lovers of all ages.

Moo Deng has gained significant attention from media outlets around the world.