Man Arrested After Climbing into Viral Pygmy Hippopotamus Moo Deng's Enclosure at Thai Zoo
A man has been apprehended by authorities after he was caught trespassing into the enclosure of the internationally renowned pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng at a prominent zoo in Thailand. The incident occurred at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo located in Chonburi Province, raising significant concerns about wildlife safety and visitor conduct.
Details of the Trespassing Incident
On Tuesday, March 17, zoo officials confirmed that around 5:00 p.m. local time, a Thai national managed to infiltrate the restricted area housing the beloved pygmy hippos. The individual reportedly exploited a moment when zoo staff were engaged in their evening duties, allowing him to sneak into the enclosure undetected initially.
Security footage obtained by media outlets clearly shows the man appearing to film or photograph the animals using what seems to be a tablet device before climbing back out of the enclosure. Fortunately, Moo Deng was accompanied by her mother Jona during the incident, and both animals remained unharmed throughout the unauthorized intrusion.
Official Statements and Legal Proceedings
Narongwit Chodchoy, the director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, provided details to the Associated Press, stating that the man was initially charged with trespassing but has since been released on bail pending further investigation. Authorities are actively working to determine the precise motive behind this reckless act, which could have endangered both the animals and the trespasser himself.
Autthapol “Benz” Nundee, who serves as Moo Deng's dedicated keeper, expressed relief that the situation did not escalate, noting, “Fortunately, he did not get bitten.” The zoo's official statement shared on social media platforms reassured the public that Moo Deng and her family “were unharmed” and that the veterinary team would continue to monitor the animals' behavior closely following the stressful event.
Background on Moo Deng's Fame and Zoo Safety Measures
Moo Deng achieved viral fame in September 2024 after captivating videos of her at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo spread rapidly across social media platforms. Her charming presence has attracted numerous visitors from both Thailand and abroad, making her one of the zoo's most celebrated residents.
In response to this incident, zoo management issued a stern reminder to all visitors, emphasizing the critical importance of adhering to established rules and staff instructions. They explicitly warned that “any risky behavior observed will result in legal action without exception,” underscoring their commitment to protecting both wildlife and public safety.
The zoo also extended gratitude to the public and fans who promptly reported the incident and showed concern, acknowledging that such cooperation “is a vital source of encouragement for our staff to diligently care for the welfare of the wild animals.” This event highlights ongoing challenges in balancing public access with stringent security measures at wildlife facilities.
