BANGKOK: A Thai man illegally entered the enclosure of Moo Deng, the endangered baby pygmy hippo and global internet sensation, at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, police confirmed.
The incident occurred Tuesday, with footage showing the man in a tank top and sandals recording the calf with a tablet. Zoo staff took 10 minutes to remove him from the restricted area, which also houses Moo Deng’s mother.
The zoo stated the animal was unharmed but slightly startled. Officials said they would pursue legal action without exception under Thai law, which carries penalties of up to one year in jail or 20,000 baht in fines.
Moo Deng, whose name means "bouncy pork," turned one in July and has since inspired merchandise, memes, and even a Sephora beauty campaign highlighting her peach-toned face.