Zoo Director Highlights Revenue from Viral Hippo to Enhance Animal Welfare
PUBLISHED: 21 Sep 2024 at 17:28
UPDATED: 21 Sep 2024 at 20:10
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is set to trademark the name “Moo Deng the Hippo” to harness the growing interest surrounding the adorable baby hippo recognized globally. Zoo Director Narongwit Chodchoi emphasized that this initiative not only prevents unauthorized commercialization but also boosts the zoo’s income. “With this revenue, we can support initiatives that will enhance the lives of all animals here,” he stated.
Atthapon Nundee, Moo Deng’s caregiver, has been sharing delightful moments of the animals for years and is amazed by the unexpected rise of Moo Deng as an internet sensation. “I wished for people to know her, but this popularity was beyond my expectations,” he shared.
The charming hippo has captured hearts worldwide, even inspiring memes and merchandise, including novelty T-shirts promoting her as a humorous presidential candidate. “Moo Deng mania” is significantly increasing visitor numbers at the zoo.
Mr. Narongwit recognizes the potential to transform this popularity into essential funding for the zoo, located about 40km northeast of Pattaya, which houses more than 2,000 animals and participates in crucial breeding programs, particularly for endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus.
To capitalize on her fame, the zoo has started selling Moo Deng merchandise, including T-shirts, which quickly sold out, demonstrating the immense public interest.
Visitors can catch Moo Deng during specific viewing times in the morning and afternoon, although due to high demand, viewing is limited and requires queuing for extended visits. For those unable to visit in person, a 24-hour livestream is available, drawing significant online viewership.
In a recent surge, the zoo reported ticket sales of 13 million baht from nearly 82,000 visitors in a short span, forecasting a remarkable total revenue of 200 million baht by the end of its fiscal year as Moo Deng’s popularity draws even more visitors from across Asia.
