Moo Deng turns 1: Thailand’s internet-famous baby hippo celebrates birthday feasting on massive fruit platter
It’s a big day for the internet’s favourite meme animal
- Moo Deng, the pygmy hippopotamus who became a viral sensation, celebrated her first birthday on 10 July with a four-day festival at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
- Her online popularity, driven by social media videos, significantly boosted zoo visitor numbers, leading to corporate sponsorships and the creation of branded merchandise.
- The birthday festivities included a large fruit platter for Moo Deng, a 100,000 baht cake, mascot parades, and a photo exhibition detailing her journey from a 5kg newborn.
- Moo Deng's fame has reached international levels, with gifts from the US Embassy in Bangkok, visits from Hollywood actors, and appearances in pop culture, including a Saturday Night Live sketch.
- Despite a recent dip in her viral status, Moo Deng continues to bring joy, notably fulfilling the final wish of a terminally ill child, and her early cuteness is expected to foster lasting affection.