The four-month-old pygmy hippo delights fans while highlighting the plight of her endangered species
Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus affectionately named “bouncy pork” in Thai, has captivated the hearts of thousands worldwide. Residents of Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand and viewers of her 24/7 livestream follow her playful antics daily. Yet, while Moo Deng thrives in captivity, her species faces a grim reality in the wild.
A Species in Peril
With fewer than 2,500 pygmy hippos remaining, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as endangered. Native to the forests of West Africa, these semi-aquatic mammals are primarily found in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ivory Coast. However, habitat loss due to deforestation, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development has severely fragmented their living spaces, leaving them vulnerable to predators and poaching.
Their elusive, nocturnal nature further complicates efforts to study and protect them. According to Professor Ian Chan from the National University of Singapore, “We know very little about them, which is worrying as they are disappearing.”
Zoos: A Crucial Role in Conservation
Institutions like the Singapore Zoo are pivotal in the preservation of pygmy hippos. Home to five individuals—Minah, Psota, Miata, Bubu, and Divo—the zoo participates in breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity. Over the years, it has transferred more than 24 pygmy hippos to zoos worldwide, including a recent transfer of a male named Thabo to Taipei Zoo.
“Zoos provide critical assurance populations,” Prof. Chan explained. “They prevent species extinction by maintaining viable numbers in captivity while offering opportunities for research.”
Preserving Natural Habitats
Despite successful captive breeding, the ultimate goal remains the conservation of pygmy hippos in their natural environment. Safeguarding their habitats requires strict enforcement against logging and poaching, as well as on-the-ground efforts by conservationists to address species-specific needs.
Moo Deng’s charm has brought global attention to the plight of her species. Her rise as an internet sensation not only entertains but also serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect endangered wildlife.
Conservation remains a collective responsibility, and initiatives inspired by figures like Moo Deng could be key to ensuring the survival of species teetering on the brink of extinction.
