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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Arts and Culture devider Thailand's Moo Deng celebrates her first birthday

Thailand's Moo Deng celebrates her first birthday

How a viral baby hippo won everyone's hearts

Published Jul 10, 2025 04:22 pm
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOO DENG Visitors greet the pygmy hippo at her enclosure (Photo Khao Kheow Open Zoo)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOO DENG Visitors greet the pygmy hippo at her enclosure (Photo Khao Kheow Open Zoo)
Moo Deng, Thailand's beloved pygmy hippo, just celebrated her first birthday today.
On the first day of her special occasion, hundreds of fans flocked to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo to share their greetings. It's only the start of a four-day celebration which will have the zoo hosting special events to commemorate Moo Deng's birth. Among the activities prepared are a mascot parade and an auction of Moo Deng's personal items, proceeds of which will go toward sustainable animal care.
SCREAM QUEEN These reaction images of Moo Deng are what led to her becoming a viral sensation online.
SCREAM QUEEN These reaction images of Moo Deng are what led to her becoming a viral sensation online.
SCREAM QUEEN These reaction images of Moo Deng are what led to her becoming a viral sensation online.
SCREAM QUEEN These reaction images of Moo Deng are what led to her becoming a viral sensation online.
How did Moo Deng rise to fame?
Moo Deng, whose name translates to "bouncing pig," first shot to fame after photos and video clips of her went viral online. She was known for having a "cheeky" attitude, often making a silly face when zookeepers interacted with her. Many memes of Moo Deng depict her expressions as a way to show sheer excitement over something. One of the most popular images is of a zookeeper picking her up, with her reaction looking similar to one of pure terror. Another photo shows her sharing a similar expression upon being sprayed by water from a hose. During the height of her popularity, the zoo put up a 24/7 livestream of her enclosure so fans from all over could see what she's up to.
Not all smiles
Moo Deng's rise to fame came with problems, as some visitors started harassing the hippo to elicit reactions from her. To counter it, the zoo installed security cameras to ensure her safety. Visitors to the zoo also reached big numbers, leading management to enforce a five-minute limit when viewing her enclosure. Moo Deng's species is also a tragic tale in itself, as its numbers dwindle in West Africa. Data from the World Wildlife Fund estimates that there are only 2,500 pygmy hippos left in the wild. Pygmy hippos often lose their homes due to deforestation and are victims of poaching. 
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