Where was Moo Deng born? Internet celebrates viral pygmy hippo’s first birthday

On July 10, 2025, Moo Deng, a newborn pygmy hippopotamus who became viral on the internet thanks to her endearing behaviors and moniker "bouncy pork," had her first birthday in Thailand's Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

Moo Deng was born in Thailand's Khao Kheow Open Zoo, located in the Chonburi province, approximately 100 kilometers south of Bangkok. She has become a worldwide sensation for her cuteness. Her becoming famous has led to the promotion of protecting her species, which are endangered.

Beginning on Thailand's Asalha Puja public holiday, Deng's four-day birthday party drew thousands of visitors to the zoo. She split a 20-kilogram tropical fruit "cake" with her 26-year-old mother, Jona, as part of the celebrations, which also featured a procession, charity auction, and picture exhibition.

Exclusive memorabilia was also released on her birthday; a cast of her footprints sold for an incredible $21,500, and her plastic bathtub sold for $2,150. The entire amount raised went to a charity for wildlife protection.

Moo Deng loved by the world

Moo Deng was born in Khao Kheow Open Zoo on July 10, 2024. Her name was selected through a fan survey, where 'Moo Deng' was selected, which translates to "Bouncy Pork" in Thai. Her name follows the same culinary theme as her siblings, Moo Waan (sweet pork) and Moo Toon (stewed pork). After her birth, she went viral and gained five million followers and a huge fan following from around the world. Videos of her clumsy movements, her plump face, and newborn chompers were shared on social media sites like TikTok and X (previously Twitter).

According to experts, Moo Deng's popularity stems from more than simply memes. Evolutionary psychologists claim that animals like Moo that exhibit "baby schema" characteristics—including big eyes, spherical bodies, and exaggerated facial features—resonate with our innate maternal tendencies.

According to a research scientist, Daniel Kruger, in evolutionary psychology at the University of Michigan and the State University of New York at Buffalo, said:

“When we see these infantile features – those big eyes, large foreheads, small chins, and pudgy bodies – we interpret that as helplessness and as dependency, and it motivates us to care for them.”

Moo Deng's notoriety has surpassed virality on the internet. She has influenced everything from desserts and latte art to ads and even featured in football memes. She has cakes inspired by her, and cosmetic brand Sephora also made a reference to her cheeks in a blush advertisement. Teams like FC Bayern, the Phoenix Suns, the Washington Commanders, and the New York Mets all uploaded memes of Deng.

Spotlight on pygmy hippos

Moo Deng belongs to a rare species- pygmy hippos (Choeropsis liberiensis), which are currently endangered and are only around 2,000 to 2,500 of them left in the wild. They can be found in West African countries like Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Ivory Coast.

Conservationists have now focused on them since they are threatened by poaching and deforestation. Atthapon Nundee, Moo Deng's lifelong caretaker and eight-year zoo employee, expressed her hope that her fame would help spread awareness of her species.

She said:

“I hope that the cuteness of Moo-Deng will raise awareness for people to come and learn about [the species].”

Deng's fame brings in 3000-10000 viewers on the weekend, which has only caused more trouble for the officials as visitors have been reported throwing water and objects to get her attention. They have now imposed strict crowd control.

Zoo director Chodchoi said:

“These behaviours are not only cruel but also dangerous. We must protect these animals and ensure that they have a safe and comfortable environment.”

Deng will now be seen on 24/7 livestreams. Nundee never thought that Deng would become this famous. She said her goal was only to make her famous in Thailand.

Stay tuned to SoapCentral for more information.

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