Welcome to the charming world of Thailand’s latest sensation – Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippopotamus with adorable chubby pink cheeks that have taken the internet by storm!
Just 2 months old, Moo Deng, born on July 10 at the Khao Kheow Zoo in the Chonburi province of Thailand, has quickly captured the hearts of people worldwide. Whether she’s eating, taking a shower, or playfully nibbling on her caretaker’s knees without teeth, this charismatic little hippo has become an overnight celebrity.
With videos of Moo Deng going viral on platforms like TikTok, where some clips have amassed over 33 million views, the baby hippo’s popularity is soaring. Brands like Thailand’s Sephora have even collaborated with Moo Deng, showcasing how to achieve her signature peachy cheeks with blush.
The sudden fame of Moo Deng has led to safety concerns at the zoo, prompting restrictions on viewing her. Visitors now have a 5-minute limit to see the viral sensation, with weekend visiting days only.
Social media has been flooded with memes of Moo Deng’s surprised expressions, fueling her rise to stardom. The Khao Kheow Zoo has teased upcoming merchandise featuring the adorable baby hippo.
After a public vote, Moo Deng was chosen as the perfect name for the pygmy hippo, meaning “bouncy pig.” Pygmy hippos, native to West Africa, are distinct from their larger relatives in behavior and size, reaching only half the height of a regular hippopotamus.
Despite their endangered status, with only around 2,000 remaining in the wild, pygmy hippos can live up to 30-50 years, making them a precious and unique species worth celebrating.
