Moo Deng's baby hippo conquers the internet: everything you need to know about the Thai zoo starlet
A baby pygmy hippo named Mu Deng, who lives at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand, has become an internet sensation.
Born in July 2024, the two-month-old hippo has caught the attention of thousands of people around the world after the zoo began posting photos and videos of her. She even got her own 24-hour streaming service.
Rise in popularity
Since Mu Deng became a social media star, the zoo has received up to 10,000 visitors a day. Her keeper notes that the little girl herself probably doesn't realise her fame, but her mother may be surprised by the increased attention.
Mu Deng may not be aware of her popularity, but her mother may be surprised because it was quiet before," he says.
Internet favourite
Online users have been actively sharing pictures and videos of Mu Deng, accompanying them with rave comments. One fan called her a "lifestyle icon", citing her "constantly wet look", "slightly blurry photos" and "round shape" as reasons to adore her. Even brands like Sephora Thailand have taken inspiration from her, offering Mu Deng-inspired make-up tips, "Apply blush like a baby behemoth."
Who is Mu Deng?
The Mu Deng is a pygmy hippo, a species that only reaches half the height of a regular hippo and weighs less than a quarter of its weight. These animals are native to West Africa, including Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire. At birth, the babies weigh between 4.5 and 6.5 kilogrammes and are weaned at six to eight months of age.
Security issues
Mou Deng's booming popularity has raised concerns among zoo management. Some visitors have thrown water and other objects at her, which is not only cruel but also dangerous. In response, the zoo has restricted visiting hours: the baby can now only be seen on weekends, and each group can observe her for no more than five minutes.
Zoo director Narongvit Chodchoy said: We must protect these animals and provide them with a safe and comfortable environment.
Conservation of the species
Dwarf hippos are classified as an endangered species. The Dwarf Hippo Foundation estimates that there are about 2,000 individuals left in the wild and their numbers continue to decline due to hunting and habitat loss. The zoo hopes that Mu Deng's popularity will draw attention to the need to conserve this rare species.