Published 08:38 IST, September 16th 2024
WATCH: Meet The Online Sensation Baby Pygmy Hippo Moo Deng Who Stormed The Internet
Meet Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo and now an online sensation from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
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Viral News: Her cute face is enough to make anyone's day. From her pinkish cheeks to her adorable antics, the internet has melted at the sight of this charming creature.
Meet Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo and now an online sensation from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
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Several videos of Moo Deng being sprayed with water or showing her cute reactions when picked up by a zookeeper are elevating the moods of netizens.
She became the internet's favorite after several videos of her were shared by her caretaker, Atthapon Nundee.
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The 31-year-old zookeeper said while speaking to a media outlet, "While tourists have played a role in boosting Moo Deng’s online popularity, her lively personality has also contributed to her fame. The moment I saw Moo Deng born, I set a goal to make her famous, but I never expected it would spread abroad. I thought she could be famous in Thailand, but not internationally."
Moo Deng was born on July 10 and was first revealed to the public on July 25. She became the heartthrob of the internet for her lively personality. Her name translates to "bouncy pig" or "pork patty."
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The baby hippo's adorable and captivating gestures have inspired art, memes, and branded merchandise. She was also noticed by Sephora Thailand, which embraced the trend by promoting a campaign with a tagline “wear your blush like a baby hippo.”
Growing Fame a Cause for Concern
The baby hippo's newfound fame has caused concern for her zookeeper, as she is visited by hundreds of people every day. Reports of visitors throwing food and disturbing her for attention have raised anxieties.
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In response, the zoo has installed CCTV cameras and urged visitors to respect the animals. Pygmy hippos are a critically endangered species, and according to a 1993 study, there were fewer than 3,000 left in the wild. Pygmy hippos are herbivores who feed on roots, leaves and fruits, native of West Africa. They are known for their unique ability to stand on their hind legs to reach food.
Moo Deng's story serves as a reminder of the responsibility we have to protect such rare species. “I hope that the cuteness of Moo Deng will raise awareness for people to come and learn about [the species],” said Atthapon.
08:38 IST, September 16th 2024