Intruder Detained After Entering Pygmy Hippo Enclosure at Thai Zoo

BANGKOK – Authorities have apprehended an individual after he was discovered scaling the enclosure of Moo Deng, the beloved pygmy hippo who has captured the hearts of social media users, according to zoo representatives.

The man, a Thai national, reportedly entered the enclosure on Tuesday evening during a period when the keeper was absent and there were no other visitors present, explained Narongwit Chodchoy, Director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, to The Associated Press.

Surveillance footage, which quickly circulated online, depicts a man dressed in a black beanie, sunglasses, a green tank top, and brown shorts. He is seen approaching Moo Deng and her mother, Jona, while holding a tablet, seemingly to document the encounter through photos or videos.

According to Narongwit, the intruder remained in the pen for only a minute or two before staff became aware of his presence. Notably, he did not attempt to escape while the zoo contacted law enforcement.

Moo Deng became an instant sensation following her birth in 2024, largely due to a zoo keeper who posted charming images and videos of the young hippo online. Her popularity has since attracted throngs of visitors, both local and international, eager to see her delightful antics firsthand and capture their own memorable shots.

The suspect is facing initial charges of trespassing, but investigations are still underway. Narongwit stated that the zoo is determined to pursue all legal avenues. The man’s identity has not been disclosed by the police.

The man has now been released on bail, Narongwit said. He said Moo Deng and Jona were safe as the man did not try to touch them.

In a statement posted Tuesday on the zoo’s official Facebook page, it said both animals appeared slightly startled by the encounter and would be monitored closely by a veterinarian.

The zoo also urged visitors to “strictly follow all rules and instructions from staff for the safety of both themselves and the wildlife.”

The Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which is about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southeast of Bangkok, sits on 800 hectares (almost 2,000 acres) of land and is home to more than 2,000 animals.