Thailand’s Pygmy Hippo Moo Deng Turns One
Thailand’s pygmy hippo Moo Deng celebrated her first birthday at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, where she drew crowds of fans who have been following her since her birth. The cute animal, whose name means “Bouncy Pork” in Thai, has become a social media sensation with five million followers.
Celebration at the Zoo
As part of the celebration, a four-day festival was organized at the zoo. Moo Deng’s fans had the opportunity to see her up close and participate in various activities. There was even a special “birthday cake” made of edible plants sponsored by a skincare beautician.
Despite the expected large crowds, Moo Deng’s enclosure attracted a smaller group of fans compared to her initial fame. However, the fans who gathered were still filled with adoration for the now 93-kilogram hippo.
The Evolution of Moo Deng
From a tiny calf weighing only five kilograms at birth, Moo Deng has grown significantly over the past year. She now spends her days plodding in her enclosure and enjoying the water in the pond, a far cry from her energetic antics as a young pygmy hippo.
One of Moo Deng’s handlers, Attaphol Nundee, mentioned that while her popularity may have dipped slightly, she still lights up when people take photos of her.
The Legacy of Moo Deng
Despite the temporary nature of online fame, Moo Deng has left a lasting impact on her fans. Her rise to stardom has shed light on the endangered status of pygmy hippos in the wild, with only around 2,500 individuals left.
As Moo Deng enters adulthood, her fans continue to cherish the memories of her cute and playful moments as a young hippo. While her popularity may fade over time, she will always be remembered as the beloved pygmy hippo who captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
References: National Geographic, World Wildlife Fund
