Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 3:08 am GMT
A two-month-old pygmy hippo named Moo Deng is turning heads and drawing crowds at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, located near Pattaya, Thailand. The adorable animal, whose name translates to ”bouncy pig,” has quickly become a viral sensation, amassing millions of views on social media platforms and causing visitor numbers to double since her birth in July. However, this surge in popularity has also brought concerns about the treatment of the baby hippo from some zoo visitors.
The Rise of a Celebrity Hippo
Moo Deng has captured the hearts of many online, emerging as an unlikely social media star. Video clips of her playful antics are frequently shared, showing her being sprayed with water or interacting with zookeepers. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo has benefited significantly from her fame, with social media followers for the zoo soaring to over 400,000 on Facebook and 50,000 on X (formerly Twitter). As Moo Deng’s popularity grew, the zoo saw visitor numbers increase, prompting a wave of merchandise sales, including hippo-themed apparel.
Social Media Impact
The zoo’s TikTok account has played a crucial role in propelling Moo Deng to stardom, boasting more than 2.5 million followers. The viral nature of her content has led to a surge in fan art, memes, and merchandise. Notably, cosmetics giant Sephora has even marketed a blush inspired by Moo Deng, advertising it with the tagline “wear your blush like a baby hippo,” demonstrating how brands are eager to align themselves with the online phenomenon.
Visitor Behavior Concerns
Despite the celebration surrounding Moo Deng, some visitors have exhibited troubling behavior. Videos have surfaced showing individuals throwing food and splashing water on the sleeping hippo in an attempt to wake her up or get her attention. This prompted Narongwit Chodchoi, the director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, to issue a strong warning regarding such actions. In a statement, he emphasized the importance of treating Moo Deng and all animals with respect, stating, “These behaviors are not only cruel but also dangerous. We must protect these animals and ensure that they have a safe and comfortable environment.”
Zoo’s Response
To address these issues, the zoo has taken precautionary measures by installing CCTV cameras around Moo Deng’s enclosure. Narongwit Chodchoi has also indicated potential legal action against any visitors who mistreat the animals. He advised the public to plan their visits during Moo Deng’s awake hours for a more enjoyable experience without causing distress to the young hippo.
Conservation and Education
Moo Deng’s rise to fame comes at a time when pygmy hippos—native to West Africa—are classified as “endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with estimates suggesting there are fewer than 3,000 left in the wild. Conservators hope that Moo Deng’s popularity will raise awareness about pygmy hippos and their conservation status.
Community and Awareness
The zoo’s increased visibility through Moo Deng can serve as a platform for educating the public on the challenges faced by pygmy hippos in the wild. It stands as an opportunity to advocate for conservation efforts and garner public interest in protection initiatives. Furthermore, as Moo Deng continues to charm audiences, she provides a moment of joy and a reminder of the importance of wildlife preservation.
A Balance Between Fame and Care
While Moo Deng enjoys her newfound celebrity status, the challenges that come with it raise important questions about responsible animal observation and the well-being of zoo animals. The juxtaposition of her fame and the need for respectful visitor behavior serves as a learning moment for both fans and the general public.
The Future for Moo Deng
As Moo Deng continues to thrive in her home at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, zoos and animal enthusiasts alike are hopeful that her story will encourage mindful interactions with wildlife. The need for boundaries and respect in animal care is paramount as Moo Deng engages an ever-growing audience.
Everyone is paying attention to Moo Deng’s journey, and it’s clear that her popularity helps start important talks about animal care, protecting nature, and what it means to be close to wild animals. Moo Deng is not just a cute face; she encourages her fans online to take action. The zoo’s efforts, along with the growing interest from people, aim to protect Moo Deng and make sure her species can thrive in the wild for a long time.
