She’s an Icon, She’s a Legend, and She Is the Moment. Meet Viral Baby Hippo Moo Deng

As someone who has worked with various wildlife organizations around the world, I must say that the recent viral sensation of Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, is a fascinating case study. The rapid increase in visitors to see this adorable creature is truly remarkable, but it also highlights some concerning behaviors that need immediate attention.

Every step she takes is closely scrutinized, every new photo of her quickly spreads and generates intense conversation. Her natural, radiant beauty sparking envy and serving as a source of inspiration for fan art and makeup guides. Moo Deng, a celebrity from Thailand, isn’t your average A-lister, but she’s certainly receiving star treatment.

Moo Deng STUNS in new photos

— Patrick Monahan (@pattymo) September 9, 2024

The two-month-old pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province has won over millions online with her endearing, feisty behavior and frightened expressions. Internet users find themselves captivated by her loud cries, whether it’s during water play, being carried by keepers, or just resting on the ground.

Moo Deng, who is born under the Cancer sign (as she was born on July 10), was introduced to the public on July 25 at the zoo. Her name, which can be translated as “bouncy pig” or “pork patty,” was selected through a popular vote among the visitors of the zoo.

Ever since Moo Deng captured our hearts as a baby hippo, I’ve been part of a dedicated team diligently sharing her adorable moments through photos, videos, and memes. As Moo Deng’s fame soared, our zoo’s social media platforms transformed into fan hubs, attracting over 50,000 followers on X, 400,000 on Facebook, and a staggering number on Instagram (over 200,000) and TikTok (over 2 million). These accounts have grown to become dedicated Moo Deng stan accounts, providing updates on her every move for fans from all corners of the globe who can’t get enough of this charming creature.

A post shared by ขาหมู แอนด์เดอะแก๊ง (@khamoo.andthegang)

Moo Deng, often found eating, sleeping, or putting on a show, is now celebrated as a “symbol of style.” This unexpected trendsetter has garnered endless admiration and upcoming merchandise from the zoo. The Thai Embassy in Tokyo and Sephora Thailand have also jumped on the bandwagon, with Sephora recommending blushes to replicate Moo Deng’s rosy cheeks. A café in Bangkok has created cakes shaped like Moo Deng, who recently received her own Wikipedia page.

A post shared by Sephora Thailand (@thaisephora)

Indeed, it’s worth noting that Moo Deng isn’t the sole hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Recently, the conservation center celebrated the 59th birthday of Mae Mali, who holds the record as Thailand’s oldest female hippo. Despite her impressive two-tonne (4,400 pounds) weight, a pygmy hippo like Moo Deng typically grows to a much smaller size, around 500 pounds. Originating from western Africa, pygmy hippos are an endangered species with roughly 2,000 individuals left in the wild.

Furthermore, since social media enthusiasts can’t seem to look away from Moo Deng, some creative fans have even compiled photo montages featuring an image of Moo Wan, another famous pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Moo Wan gained notoriety when she took a bite out of a zookeeper’s leg, and it appears that Moo Deng is equally powerful with her bites as well.

Ever since the internet sensation of Moo Deng, I’ve noticed an incredible surge in the number of people visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo. It seems like everyone is rushing to catch a glimpse of this adorable baby hippo – a fan club, if you will!

Despite Moo Deng’s rapid success, there have been worries about her security. In a video posted online, Moo Deng was seen resting near the edge of her enclosure when a visitor squirted water onto her. Some visitors have even thrown bananas and shellfish at Moo Deng, according to local media reports, leading to demands for improved safety measures to safeguard the young hippo. Social media users have voiced their concerns, calling for enhanced protection for Moo Deng.

On Thursday, Narongwit Chodchoi, director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, asked visitors to stop throwing objects at Moo Deng. The zoo has set up cameras in the area and is prepared to take legal action against those who do not comply. He stated that such behavior is not only cruel but also dangerous, emphasizing the need to protect animals and provide them with a secure and comfortable habitat.

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2024-09-13 07:06