Thailand's internet-famous hippo Moo Deng celebrates second birthday
Thailand's internet-famous pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng marked her second birthday with a fruit-and-vegetable feast, drawing devoted fans to the zoo where the viral sensation first captured hearts around the world.
Keepers at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri unveiled a colourful birthday cake topped with carved melons and fresh produce. Moo Deng wasted little time joining the celebration, making her way to the giant treat after her mother, Jona, had already begun eating.
The celebration attracted a steady stream of visitors, including fans who had travelled from overseas.
Although now approaching the size of her mother, with only her smaller frame and smooth ears setting her apart, Moo Deng has lost little of her appeal.
Moo Deng became a global social media phenomenon shortly after birth through videos shared by her keeper, propelling the endangered pygmy hippopotamus into the international spotlight.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
