BANGKOK (AP) — A new official song featuring the internet sensation pygmy hippo Moo Deng from Thailand has been released in four languages for her global fans. The 50-second upbeat song titled “Moodeng Moodeng” is available in Thai, English, Chinese, and Japanese versions. The song features simple lyrics like “Moo Deng Moo Deng, boing boing boing/ Mommy mommy, play with me” and is accompanied by a music video showcasing the adorable baby hippo bouncing, playing with her keeper, and spending time with her mother Jona.
The catchy song was produced and written by renowned Thai composer Mueanphet Ammara and released by GMM Music, one of Thailand's largest music companies. Moo Deng, whose name translates to “bouncy pork” in Thai, quickly gained global fame after being introduced on Facebook by the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand’s Chon Buri province.
Known for her playful and energetic personality, Moo Deng's bouncing antics have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, leading to the creation of numerous memes and the adoption of her image by various sports teams and businesses. The four-month-old hippo has become a major attraction at the zoo, drawing thousands of visitors daily and boosting merchandise sales featuring her likeness.
The increased revenue generated by Moo Deng's popularity is expected to support the zoo's conservation efforts, particularly its breeding programs for endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus. Native to West Africa, the pygmy hippo faces threats from poaching and habitat loss, with only 2,000-3,000 individuals remaining in the wild.
The Khao Kheow Open Zoo, spanning 800 hectares and home to over 2,000 animals, has seen a significant influx of visitors since Moo Deng's arrival, with daily attendance ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 guests. The zoo's director, Narongwit Chodchoi, emphasized that the funds generated by Moo Deng's popularity will contribute to the conservation of endangered species like the pygmy hippopotamus.
All versions of the “Moodeng Moodeng” song can be found on YouTube and various streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.
