Moo Deng Turns Two as Zoo Celebrates Star Hippo
Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated pygmy hippo Moo Deng's second birthday with free admission for children and announced a new 10-rai "Hippo Village" facility. The viral star's fame has boosted zoo revenue nearly 77% to 319 million
Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng's second birthday on July 10 with a special event offering free admission for children. Zoo director Narongwit Chodchoy announced the opening of the new "Hippo Village" project, a 10-rai (16,000-square-metre) facility designed to enhance the living conditions of hippopotamuses and pygmy hippos, particularly Moo Deng and her family.
The zoo's financial performance has dramatically improved since Moo Deng's rise to global fame. Revenue jumped from 180 million baht in fiscal 2024 to 319 million baht in fiscal 2025, when Moo Deng's popularity peaked. With three months remaining in fiscal 2026, the zoo has already generated 160 million baht in revenue.
"Moo Deng and the other hippos in her family have become symbols of happiness and joy for many Thai people," Narongwit said. He encouraged visitors to explore other zoos operated by the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, which also house hippopotamuses and pygmy hippos.
