Moo Deng Becomes Aunt as Khao Kheow Welcomes Hippo Calf
Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated the birth of a baby pygmy hippo on November 4, 2026, making the famous Moo Deng an aunt. The calf, born to Moo Manao and Moo Tun — Moo Deng's older brother — is healthy and already exploring its enclosure under its mother's protective watch. The zoo plans to introduce the newborn to the public soon, delighting fans nationwide.
Moo Deng is now an aunt! Natural Resources and Environment Minister Sutthichai Chomkluen shared the good news from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, which welcomed a new member — a baby pygmy hippo born on November 4, 2026. The parents are Moo Manao, aged 14, and Moo Tun, aged 7, who is Moo Deng's older brother, making the calf Moo Deng's niece or nephew. The news has sparked excitement and smiles among Moo Deng's fan club and animal lovers across the country.
Minister Sutthichai said he received a report from Khao Kheow Zoo Director Narongwit Chotchoi that following the birth, the veterinary team closely monitored the health of both mother and calf. Both are in strong condition. The calf has begun moving around and exploring the area, with mother Moo Manao staying close by to supervise. They have now been allowed to remain together normally.
However, Moo Manao continues to display protective behavior, keeping a vigilant watch and not allowing keepers to approach too closely — a heartwarming reflection of maternal instinct and the close bond with her offspring.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is preparing to debut the new arrival to the public and fans soon, marking another piece of good news for the pygmy hippo family that has elevated Moo Deng to aunt status.
Moo Tun and Moo Manao held their wedding ceremony on January 24, 2025, with Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi joining the procession as the senior groom's relative and signing as a witness on the marriage certificate between Miss Moo Manao and Mr. Moo Tun, the pygmy hippos of Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
