Khao Kheow Zoo Celebrates Hippo Star Moo Deng's Second Birthday
Khao Kheow Zoo celebrated pygmy hippo Moo Deng's second birthday with a grand event featuring officials, fans, and a vegetable cake, while unveiling plans for a 75-million-baht habitat expansion project in Chachoengsao province.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo held a grand celebration for pygmy hippo Moo Deng's second birthday on July 10, 2025, with Bunyachob Suddhamanasswong, chairman of the Thailand Zoo Organization, officially opening the "Happy Moo Deng Day" event at the hippopotamus exhibit in Chachoengsao province. The beloved dwarf hippo, who has captured hearts across Thailand and among fans globally, was honored with official remarks from zoo director Narongvit Chadchoy and Thailand Zoo Organization director Jonglani Kaewsod.
During the opening ceremony, officials and tourists sang happy birthday to the two-year-old hippo and presented a cake decorated with fresh vegetables and fruits. The celebration featured photo galleries, mascot parades of Moo Deng's animal friends, and a booth where fans could write birthday wishes. Bunyachob highlighted how Moo Deng exemplifies Thailand's soft power, generating significant economic benefits for Chachoengsao province while supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
The zoo also unveiled the "Hippo Village" project, a 75-million-baht government-funded development set to begin construction in 2025. The project will upgrade and expand hippopotamus habitats using nature-based design principles that closely mimic natural environments, promoting animal welfare and allowing natural behaviors. The redesigned exhibit will serve as a new landmark, enhancing tourist experience while sustainably boosting Thailand's long-term tourism economy.
