From Adorable Hippo to Social Media Icon
Meet Moo Deng, the 2-month-old pygmy hippopotamus taking the internet by storm. Known for her toothless chewing and charming antics, Moo Deng, affectionately nicknamed the “bouncing pig,” has quickly become a celebrity. Born in July at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, Moo Deng’s rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric.
A Zoo’s Star and Brand Ambassador
Moo Deng’s daily life, which includes napping, exploring her enclosure, and playfully chewing on her caretakers’ knees during showers, has captivated audiences worldwide. The zoo’s Facebook page, where her videos first went viral, has played a significant role in her stardom. Her popularity has extended beyond social media, with Moo Deng featuring in cosmetic ads and even becoming a brand ambassador for Thailand.
Sephora is promoting its blush products to mimic the “pink & peachy tone” of Moo Deng’s cheeks, while a bakery in Bangkok has had to limit orders for Moo Deng-themed cakes due to high demand. Additionally, the Thai Embassy in Tokyo has shared her photos on X (formerly Twitter), encouraging Japanese visitors to come see her.
Fan Frenzy and Concerns for Safety
With fame comes a flurry of fan activity. Moo Deng has inspired countless memes, fan art, and videos, with one TikTok video of her playing with her caretaker amassing over 33 million views. Despite the love, the zoo has had to implement measures to ensure Moo Deng’s safety. Some fans have thrown water and objects at her, prompting the zoo’s director, Narongwit Chodchoi, to threaten legal action.
In response, the zoo has restricted visits to Moo Deng to weekends only, with each session limited to five minutes. “These behaviors are not only cruel but also dangerous,” Chodchoi stated. “We must protect these animals and ensure that they have a safe and comfortable environment.”
Conservation and the Future of Pygmy Hippos
Pygmy hippos, classified as endangered, face significant threats from poaching, with only about 2,000 remaining in the wild. They are smaller than their larger relatives, living up to 50 years and consuming grass, leaves, shoots, and fallen fruits.
Moo Deng’s rise to fame has highlighted the plight of her species, bringing attention to the need for conservation efforts. As she continues to win hearts and captivate audiences, her story serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving endangered wildlife.