Khon Kaen Zoo Names Baby Hippo 'Moo Namtok'
Khon Kaen Zoo named its baby pygmy hippopotamus "Moo Namtok" after a public vote of nearly 11,000 people, with the winning name receiving nearly 8,000 votes during the zoo's 13th-anniversary celebration in June.
On June 28, 2025, Khon Kaen Zoo held its 13th-anniversary celebration, with zoo director Tippawadee Kittakun officially announcing the name of a female pygmy hippopotamus cub, daughter of mother Nya Nya and father Na Dech and granddaughter of Moo Deng. The public naming vote, which began on May 25, drew 10,737 votes from citizens and tourists nationwide.
The winning name "Moo Namtok" (Waterfall Pig) received 7,948 votes, far ahead of runners-up Moo Yo with 1,072 votes, Moo Dung with 618 votes, Moo Ping with 576 votes, and Moo Deo with 523 votes.
"The announcement reflects nationwide public interest and affection for the cub," Director Tippawadee stated. "The name 'Moo Namtok' captures the cub's behavior and conveys brightness and charm. The grand prize winner receives membership in the Thai Zoo Association allowing free entry to all national zoos for two years, plus a car, four additional memberships, an adorable Moo Namtok plush toy, and special souvenirs."
The zoo director added that the 13th-anniversary event celebrates not only the zoo's achievements but also its conservation work through staff collaboration and community partnerships. She invited visitors to experience the cub's playful development and learn about rare animal conservation at Khon Kaen Zoo, open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
