Thai Zoos Aim to Boost Pygmy Hippo Population
Breeding Plans Involve Celebrity Hippo Moo Deng's Older Brother
Thailand is taking measures to expand its population of pygmy hippopotamuses.
The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri has announced plans for Moo Toon, the elder sibling of celebrity hippo Moo Deng, to mate with Moo Manao from the Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo.
Both hippos, Moo Toon at five years old and Moo Manao at eight, are at optimal breeding age according to zoo officials.
Narongwit Chodchoy, director of the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, confirmed that a team was dispatched to Nakhon Ratchasima to ensure Moo Manao's health before her relocation.
An enclosure is being prepared for the pair, and a ceremonial 'wedding' is planned.
This effort aligns with increased awareness around endangered pygmy hippos, highlighted by Moo Deng's global fame.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature reports fewer than 2,500 adult pygmy hippos remain in the wild, with numbers steadily decreasing.
The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri has announced plans for Moo Toon, the elder sibling of celebrity hippo Moo Deng, to mate with Moo Manao from the Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo.
Both hippos, Moo Toon at five years old and Moo Manao at eight, are at optimal breeding age according to zoo officials.
Narongwit Chodchoy, director of the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, confirmed that a team was dispatched to Nakhon Ratchasima to ensure Moo Manao's health before her relocation.
An enclosure is being prepared for the pair, and a ceremonial 'wedding' is planned.
This effort aligns with increased awareness around endangered pygmy hippos, highlighted by Moo Deng's global fame.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature reports fewer than 2,500 adult pygmy hippos remain in the wild, with numbers steadily decreasing.
