Moo Deng’s Zoo Responds to Concerns Over Pygmy Hippo’s “Sad” Habitat

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Moo Deng‘s caretakers are addressing concerns over her welfare.

After a video of a pygmy hippo gained popularity online, the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand addressed concerns raised in recent comments about the animal’s habitat and how clean it is. The zoo is responding to comments about Nong Moo Deng, the hippo featured in the video.

The zoo explained in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the blobs seen in social media photos are probably hippo droppings. Hippos naturally poop in the water or on land to mark their territory. The zoo also confirmed that keepers clean up animal waste every morning, following international animal welfare guidelines.

The zoo clarified that the mud in Moo Deng’s habitat isn’t from poor maintenance. It’s intentionally designed this way to let him act naturally and keep his skin healthy.

The zoo explained that pygmy hippos need a humid environment and announced plans to expand their hippo habitat. This new space will comfortably house six pygmy hippos and seven common hippos, giving them plenty of room and an environment that meets their natural needs.

 

The zoo stated they’ll be extra careful with Moo Deng and the other hippos during construction, as loud noises might upset them.

The project will be carried out in stages, according to a recent announcement. Khao Kheow Open Zoo also stated that they are dedicated to creating attractive and up-to-date animal habitats, all while prioritizing the well-being of the animals in their care.

People became worried about the living conditions of a young hippo named Moo Deng after conservationist Siranudh “Psi” Scott shared photos on X (formerly Twitter) on February 14th. She wrote in Thai that it was heartbreaking to see Moo Deng in that condition.

Despite all her success and earnings, people ultimately see her as just a business, he explained.

Although Scott stated he wasn’t faulting those caring for Moo Deng, he stressed that famous animals who bring positive attention to the country deserve a good life, including plenty of space, a secure environment, and the company of other animals – a standard of care that matches the benefits they provide.

Scott emphasized that the well-being and rights of animals kept in captivity deserve the same consideration as those given to wild, protected animals. He believes there’s no real difference between the two when it comes to how we should treat them.

People became worried about the living conditions of a young hippo named Moo Deng after conservationist Siranudh “Psi” Scott shared photos on X (formerly Twitter) on February 14th. She wrote in Thai that seeing Moo Deng in that condition was “really sad.”

Despite all her success and earnings, people ultimately see her as just another company, he explained.

Scott clarified he wasn’t blaming Moo Deng’s keepers, but stressed that famous animals who bring positive attention to the country deserve a good life, including enough space, safety, and the company of other animals. He believes their care should reflect the value they bring to everyone.

Scott emphasized that the well-being and rights of animals kept in captivity deserve the same consideration as those of animals living freely in the wild. He believes there’s no real difference between the two situations.

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2026-02-19 01:51