During the peak of X’s renown (indeed, back when it was still known as Twitter), it appeared we couldn’t pass a week without the rise of some new viral, internet-loving creature, ranging from Fiona the Hippo from Cincinnati Zoo (she takes baths, folks!) to Koko, arguably the world’s most renowned gorilla. Regrettably, genuinely enjoyable animal content has seen a decline online recently, which perhaps explains why the emergence of Thai pygmy hippo Moo Deng has enthralled the masses. Below, discover all you need to know regarding Moo Deng, the girl we all aspire to be.
Who is Moo Deng?
Moo Deng, whose name means “bouncy pork” in Thai, is a two-month-old pygmy hippopotamus who has been capturing hearts since her birth on July 10, 2024. She’s one of seven offspring born to proud hippo parents Jona and Tony, and despite the risk of offending her siblings, who can surely read and have Vogue web subscriptions, she’s quite evidently the standout: She’s become a Utah Jazz meme and even inspired a Sephora Thailand campaign encouraging customers to “wear your blush like a baby hippo.” What greater accolade could exist for a young animal?
Where does Moo Deng reside?
Moo Deng’s current abode is Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, which has been overwhelmed with visitors eager to catch a sight of the young hippo. According to a social media update from the zoo, guests are now restricted to five-minute slots of time with Moo Deng, partially due to occurrences of individuals tossing items or pouring water on her. As zoo director Narongwit Chodcho informed a local publication: “These actions are not only cruel but also hazardous. We must safeguard these animals and ensure they have a secure and comfortable setting.” (It’s noteworthy that Moo Deng’s pygmy hippo species is endangered, with merely about 2,000 left in the wild.)
Why has Moo Deng become such a viral phenomenon?
Moo Deng’s adorableness speaks volumes—she’s a rounded, glossy, wet-eyed diva—and online, her devoted fans have diligently shared images of the hippo doing everything from bathing to eating to seemingly crying out into the void. In the span of roughly a week, she’s become a symbol for our confused times.