A man has been ordered to pay a $300 fine by a Thai court after unlawfully entering the enclosure of Moo Deng, an endangered pygmy hippo who gained internet fame in 2024. The incident occurred last month at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, located approximately two hours from Bangkok.
Narongwit Chodchoy, the zoo's director, confirmed the court's decision, stating that the individual was found guilty. Local media footage captured the intruder inside the pen, recording Moo Deng with a tablet. Fortunately, the young hippo was reported unharmed, though she was "slightly startled" by the encounter.
"This ruling demonstrates that animal rights cannot be violated, whether in captivity or the wild," Chodchoy emphasized.
The director noted that the zoo is now enhancing its security protocols in response to the breach. "We already train our staff for animal escapes, but we will now include procedures for handling intruders," he explained. "We've learned from this incident and are committed to preventing any recurrence—for Moo Deng and all our animals."
Moo Deng, whose name translates to "bouncy pig," became a social media sensation shortly after her birth in July 2024. Videos of her playful antics went viral, spawning memes and drawing thousands of visitors to the zoo each weekend. Her popularity even led to a line of merchandise inspired by the pygmy hippo.
The fine imposed was 10,000 baht (equivalent to $300 or £223), and the zoo has since increased security patrols to safeguard its animals.