Moo Deng, a two-month-old baby pygmy hippo, is Thailand’s unexpected new it girl. She’s now a viral sensation and is attracting huge queues at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province and even has her own 24-hour livestream.
The zoo says visitor numbers have doubled since her birth in July, boosting revenue that can be used for animal conservation efforts. But Moo Deng’s fame comes at a price: videos have emerged showing visitors throwing food at the plump hippopotamus so she’ll squeal for their cameras.
BBC Thai reporter Panisa Aemocha explains Moo Deng’s rise to fame — and criticisms that have been levelled at the Thai zoo.
We also hear from Simon Watt, author of the book “We Can’t All Be Pandas, the Ugly Animals”. He discusses the link between cuteness and conservation — and how less attractive species are being left behind.
And Moo Deng superfan Ashley Calloway, a teacher from Atlanta, explains why her students can’t get enough of the adorable hippo.
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Zofia Louise and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde