Moo Deng, a two-month-old baby pygmy hippopotamus, has not only captured hearts online but also significantly boosted ticket sales for the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. In the first 19 days of September, the zoo generated 12.97 million baht (S$470,000) from 81,786 visitors, largely drawn by the young hippo’s charm.
## Background
Moo Deng resides at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri province. The zoo’s director, Narongwit Chodchoy, noted that the public’s fascination with the adorable hippo has led to a 50 per cent increase in visitor numbers. The zoo anticipates this trend will continue, aiming to surpass one million visitors and achieve over 200 million baht (S$7.8 million) in total revenue for the fiscal year. The influx of visitors includes a significant number of foreign tourists from countries like Japan, China, and South Korea.
## Cashcowhippo
The zoo has capitalised on Moo Deng’s popularity by launching a 24-hour live stream featuring various animals, with peak viewership times coinciding with Moo Deng’s activities. According to the Bangkok Post, the most popular times are between 7:45 am and 9 am, during her mother Jona’s afternoon feeding, and when staff clean her pen. Visitors eager to see Moo Deng in person must queue and are limited to five-minute viewing sessions during peak periods, with the option to requeue for another glimpse.
Moo Deng became an internet sensation in August 2024 after photos of her playful antics went viral on social media. On September 8, the zoo announced a new clothing collection inspired by the baby hippo, further monetising her fame.
## More about pygmy hippos
Pygmy hippos are classified as an endangered species, according to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Native to the upper Guinea forest of West Africa, they can live up to 43 years under human care. Their greyish-black skin helps them stay cool in humid climates, but they dehydrate easily in the sun, spending most of their time underwater. Lacking sweat glands, their skin secretes a pink fluid that acts as a natural sunscreen, giving them a shiny, wet appearance.
## Future prospects
The success of Moo Deng has not only brought financial gains but also raised awareness about the endangered status of pygmy hippos. The zoo’s efforts to promote conservation through engaging the public with live streams and merchandise have set a precedent for how modern zoos can blend entertainment with education. As the year progresses, Khao Kheow Open Zoo aims to continue leveraging Moo Deng’s popularity to attract more visitors and support conservation initiatives.
