Moo Deng

Moo Deng is a female pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha, Chonburi, Thailand, born on 10 July 2024.

Moo Deng is a female pygmy hippopotamus at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha, Chonburi, Thailand, born on 10 July 2024. She became an internet celebrity in 2024 after photos and videos of her were widely shared online. The name is Thai and is commonly translated as “bouncy pig” or “bouncy pork.”

Early life

Moo Deng was born at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province, Thailand, on 10 July 2024. She was publicly introduced later in July 2024, when she was still very young.

Name and popularity

Her name was selected in a zoo poll and is widely reported as meaning “bouncy pig” or “bouncy pork” in Thai. Videos of her behaviour spread online and turned her into a viral internet figure.

Species

Moo Deng belongs to the pygmy hippopotamus, a species native to West Africa. The species is considered vulnerable or endangered in the sources provided, and Moo Deng’s popularity has been linked to public interest in its conservation.

Cultural impact

Moo Deng’s fame extended beyond zoological interest and into broader internet culture, including memes, fan pages, merchandise, and media coverage. Her popularity also increased attendance at the zoo.