Thai baby hippo Moo-Deng harassed by fans at zoo
Visitors throw objects at Moo-Deng to capture attention
A two-month-old baby pygmy hippo in Thailand, named Moo-Deng, is experiencing the downside of her internet stardom. With millions of fans globally, she can’t leave her enclosure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo without being surrounded by cameras. Unfortunately, some fans have resorted to throwing objects at her to capture her attention.
Moo-Deng became an online sensation and popular meme after her photos went viral. “When I saw Moo-Deng born, I aimed to make her famous, but I never expected it to go international. I thought she could be famous in Thailand but not globally,” zookeeper Atthapon Nundee stated.
Her fame has indeed crossed borders. On social media platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram, videos of Moo-Deng have garnered millions of views. The zoo near Pattaya has seen a surge in visitors since her birth in July.
A chubby, playful baby pygmy hippo is drawing crowds at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, Thailand.
Videos and photos of two-month-old Moo Deng have gone viral on social media, with people highly entertained by her cute appearance.pic.twitter.com/857KRqc2Cx
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) September 12, 2024
However, not all visitors treat Moo-Deng well. Videos online show visitors at Khao Kheow Open Zoo throwing objects at her to get her attention. One tourist even poured water on her to wake her up.
The zoo has warned that it will take legal action against those who mistreat Moo-Deng. “These behaviours are not only cruel but also dangerous,” zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi said in an online statement. “We must protect these animals and ensure they have a safe and comfortable environment.”
Chodchoi mentioned that the best time to visit Moo-Deng is when she is awake, possibly referring to the video where water was splashed on her. The zoo has increased security around Moo-Deng’s enclosure, adding CCTV cameras and threatening legal action against those who mistreat her.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Guardian reports on Moo Deng, a two-month-old pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand, who has captivated the world with her adorable antics and is now a viral sensation on TikTok, drawing international media attention and fans. (Read more)
- MENAFN reports that viral baby hippo Moo Deng faces harassment from visitors, with zoo management implementing security measures and warning against mistreating the celebrity resident. (Read more)
- New York Post highlights Moo Deng, a celebrity pygmy hippo, attracting crowds to a Thai zoo, with officials struggling to manage the sudden fame and increased visitor numbers. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Moo-Deng?
Moo-Deng is a two-month-old baby pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
Why is Moo-Deng famous?
Moo-Deng became famous after her photos went viral on social media, making her an internet sensation and popular meme.
How are visitors mistreating Moo-Deng?
Some visitors throw objects at Moo-Deng and even pour water on her to get her attention.
What actions is the zoo taking to protect Moo-Deng?
The zoo has installed CCTV cameras and threatened legal action against visitors who mistreat Moo-Deng.
When is the best time to visit Moo-Deng?
The best time to visit Moo-Deng is when she is awake, as stated by the zoo director.
