Thailand's baby pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, has inspired an official song released in four languages—Thai, English, Chinese, and Japanese. The 50-second song, "Moodeng Moodeng," features simple, catchy lyrics and a music video showcasing the hippo's playful antics. Moo Deng has become a global sensation, boosting visitor numbers and merchandise sales at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which uses the increased revenue to support breeding programs for endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus.
The Houston Zoo has welcomed Akobi, a 477-pound male pygmy hippopotamus, as part of the AZA Species Survival Plan. Akobi, whose name means "first born" in Yoruba, is the first pygmy hippo at the zoo since the death of Silas in 2022. Pygmy hippos, smaller and more docile than common hippos, are gaining popularity, partly due to viral sensations like Moo Deng from Thailand. The zoo is also celebrating its centennial with new exhibits and awards.
Archaeologists from the University of Athens have made a "significant discovery" of ancient pygmy hippo fossils on the Greek island of Crete. The fossils, dating back to 350,000 B.C., were found at Katharo Plateau and represent the first high concentration of pygmy hippopotamus fossils found in Greece. The excavation is ongoing, and researchers expect to find more fossils. This discovery, along with other recent findings in Europe, provides valuable insights into ancient ecosystems.
