Thailand zoo urges respect for baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng

Thailand’s newest attraction, Moo Deng, has captured hearts, but the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri is urging visitors to act responsibly around the two month old pygmy hippopotamus.

Zoo officials yesterday requested better behaviour from visitors after videos surfaced on social media depicting some individuals throwing shellfish at the young hippo as she slept.

In a statement, zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi asked visitors to refrain from throwing objects at Moo Deng, highlighting the potential risk of injury to the animal.

Another video clip showed a visitor splashing water on Moo Deng, sparking outrage among netizens.

Narongwit also advised that the best time to visit Moo Deng is when she is awake.

The zoo has since installed CCTV cameras around the enclosures. Narongwit warned that if visitors fail to comply with the rules, the zoo might consider legal action to ensure the safety of its animals, reported Bangkok Post.

ORIGINAL STORY: Newborn pygmy hippo charms visitors at Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Sri Racha announced the arrival of a newborn female pygmy hippo.

Born on July 10, the baby hippo was introduced to the public yesterday, July 25. The zoo’s director, Narongwit Chotchoy, confirmed the birth at 10.30am, noting that both the mother, 25 year old Jona, and father, 24 year old Tony are in good health, along with their new offspring.

The baby hippo is already active and remains close to her mother. The zoo’s veterinarian has been monitoring them closely, as Jona is very protective of her newborn. This birth marks the seventh pygmy hippo born to Jona and Tony at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Although the baby has not yet been named, the zoo plans to name her soon.

Visitors have quickly taken to the new addition, bringing their children to see and photograph the adorable young hippo. The zoo has become a popular destination for families eager to catch a glimpse of the newborn.