CHONBURI, Thailand — The world-famous pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, celebrated her first birthday on Thursday at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Despite her burgeoning fame, Moo Deng remains blissfully unbothered, moisturized, and content in her unique lane.
Unaware of the significance of the day, Moo Deng spent her time meandering around her enclosure, indulging in naps, and savoring her favorite treats—watermelon and vegetables. As part of her birthday festivities, she enjoyed a refreshing shower, a routine that has endeared her to millions online.
The Global Phenomenon of Moo Deng
Moo Deng’s birthday celebrations are set to last four days, featuring a 44-pound cake crafted especially for her. Her celebrity status has drawn fans from across the globe, including Molly Swindall, a self-proclaimed “mooniac” from New York, who traveled to Thailand just to partake in the festivities.
“She’s an icon and everyone in the world loves her,” Swindall, 24, expressed enthusiastically. Having the opportunity to prepare Moo Deng’s birthday breakfast was a dream come true for Swindall, who remarked, “It’s fun to see she’s her same old self. Fame hasn’t changed her.”
“I love Moo Deng so much,” Swindall added, emphasizing the joy Moo Deng has brought during challenging times.
Swindall, on her third visit to Thailand, praised the country’s hospitality and the pride its people take in their culture. “They’re so kind and happy,” she noted, reflecting on her experiences.
Fans Flock from Afar
Joining Swindall was Thea Chavez, a flight attendant from Houston, who also made the journey to celebrate Moo Deng. “Happy birthday, Moo Deng. Thank you for all the happiness you’ve given people,” Chavez said, wishing the hippo many more joyful years.
Thai fan Rathapat Sripisit, eager to catch a glimpse of Moo Deng, camped nearby the zoo. “I want to come and celebrate,” she said, appreciating the international attention the zoo has received thanks to Moo Deng, whose name translates to “Bouncing Pig” or “Pork Patty.”
“I am happy to see many people, families, and visitors from many countries come to visit us and visit her,” Sripisit shared.
The Rise of an Internet Sensation
Moo Deng’s journey to stardom began with a naming contest on the zoo’s Facebook page, garnering over 20,000 votes. Her caretakers’ decision to share videos of her daily antics quickly propelled her to internet fame.
Her popularity is reflected in the numerous fan pages dedicated to her across social media platforms. Videos of Moo Deng have amassed tens of millions of views, and her likeness has been trademarked in Thailand. The hippo’s image now graces a variety of merchandise, from clothing to plush toys, and even her own cryptocurrency.
According to Narongwit Chodchoy, the zoo’s director, “Attendance has quadrupled because of her.”
Raising Awareness and Looking Ahead
Moo Deng’s fame has not only increased zoo attendance but also raised awareness about pygmy hippos, an endangered species native to West Africa. With an estimated 2,000 remaining in the wild, Moo Deng serves as an ambassador for her species.
Experts note that pygmy hippos can live up to 50 years, suggesting that Moo Deng will continue to charm her audience for many years to come. Whether her stardom will persist as she matures remains to be seen.
For now, Moo Deng’s focus is on her fans, her mother, and the ongoing celebrations. As the festivities wind down, she will likely return to her favorite pastime—sleep.
