Zoo sees 12,000 visitors daily for baby hippo Moo Deng

A surge of 12,000 visitors flocked to Khao Kheow Open Zoo yesterday, September 15, to see the increasingly popular baby pygmy hippopotamus known as Moo Deng. The zoo plans to introduce a new sloth family next month, urging tourists to avoid disturbing animals.

The Director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand, Attaporn Srirang, reported that the popularity of Moo Deng has significantly boosted visitor numbers. The zoo, located in Si Racha, Chon Buri, saw an influx of people arriving even before opening hours.

On a typical weekend, the zoo hosts approximately 4,000 to 5,000 visitors but yesterday’s count reached an impressive 12,000. Srirang reveals that the popularity of Moo Deng has driven the zoo to organise viewing sessions.

“Moo Deng’s popularity has created a vibrant atmosphere at Khao Kheow… We managed the crowd by organising viewing sessions, allowing groups to observe Moo Deng for three to five minutes each. Visitors also had the chance to see other hippos, including Mae Mali, Kha Moo, and Moo Toon, Moo Deng’s older siblings.”

Srirang recommended visiting on weekdays to avoid overcrowding. The surge in visitors not only benefits Khao Kheow but also has a positive impact on other zoos nationwide. For instance, Ubon Ratchathani and Khon Kaen zoos have also reported increased interest in their pygmy hippos, Kaki and Duang Maprao, Moo Deng’s relatives.

The zoo director also highlighted the zoo’s street shows, where caretakers interact with animals in front of visitors.

Promoting animal care

“These shows help people understand animal care better. For example, guests can watch caretakers bathe rhinos. We plan to introduce similar initiatives in other zoos.”

Srirang also reveals that next month, Khao Kheow Open Zoo will welcome a new celebrity—the sloth family. Currently, the zoo houses only one sloth, Grandfather Flash.

“We have recently acquired young sloths. If they pair well with Grandfather Flash, we will organise a wedding ceremony to promote breeding and educate the public. We are also building a new home for the sloth couple.”

Srirang also addressed concerns about the potential stress caused to animals by the large number of visitors.

“The hippos, including Moo Deng, are not easily disturbed as they stay within their designated areas. However, we urge visitors not to throw objects or splash water at the animals. Any actions causing harm or stress to the animals, such as making them run into enclosures, will result in legal consequences.”

Srirang emphasised that the zoo would take legal action if necessary, as the animals are government property. If minor disturbances occur, warnings will be issued, but severe cases will be dealt with legally.

Showcasing Thai zoos

Altogether, Srirang sees the global attention Moo Deng has received as an excellent opportunity to highlight Thai zoos.

“Moo Deng’s fame has spread worldwide without significant investment. We focused on showcasing her cuteness rather than spending extensively on promotions. This has been a great opportunity to highlight Thai zoos, which are well-managed and provide excellent animal welfare.”

International media have shown immense interest in Moo Deng, making her a global sensation. Artists and illustrators have been captivated, creating numerous artworks featuring the adorable hippo. However, there have been instances of visitors throwing objects and splashing water at Moo Deng to get a reaction, prompting the zoo director to issue a stern warning against such behaviour.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo continues to draw crowds, thanks to Moo Deng’s charm and the upcoming introduction of a new sloth family, ensuring a lively and engaging experience for visitors while promoting animal welfare and education, reported KhaoSod.