Meet Thailand’s Most Adorable Star: Baby Pygmy Hippo ‘Muden’
Have you heard about Muden (หมูเด้ง), the latest sensation in Thailand? Born in July 2024 at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, this baby pygmy hippo has taken social media by storm, captivating visitors from across the country and beyond. In this article, we’ll introduce you to Muden, explore why this little hippo is so popular, and guide you on how to visit this adorable celebrity!
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1. Who is Muden?
Muden (หมูเด้ง) is a baby pygmy hippopotamus born in July 2024 at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, eastern Thailand. The name Muden means “bouncy pork ball” in Thai, inspired by its chubby and squishy appearance.
Pygmy hippos are much smaller than regular hippos, growing to around 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length. They are a rare and endangered species, making Muden’s birth an exciting event for conservation efforts.
2. Why is Muden So Popular?
The Birth of a Star
Muden’s birth was a huge event in Thailand, quickly gaining attention on social media and news platforms. Within weeks, Muden became a national sensation!
Reasons for Muden’s Popularity
- Cuteness Overload – Muden’s chubby, bouncy, and squishy body makes it irresistible.
- Rare Species – Pygmy hippos are rare and not commonly seen.
- Live Zoo Streaming – Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s official live feeds let fans watch Muden grow in real time.
- Trending on Social Media – The hashtag #Muden trended on Instagram and Twitter, spreading internationally.
In October 2024, Muden’s popularity helped Khao Kheow Open Zoo achieve a record-breaking 14,000 visitors in one day!
3. How to Visit Muden
To meet Muden in person, head to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand.
Zoo Information
- Name: Khao Kheow Open Zoo
- Location: Chonburi Province (About 90 minutes from Bangkok)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Admission Fees:
- Adults: 250 THB (~$7 USD)
- Children: 100 THB (~$3 USD)
- How to Get There:
- From Bangkok: About 90-minute drive (Best by Grab/taxi)
- From Pattaya: About 40-minute drive
Best Times to Visit
- Mornings (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM) – Muden is most active in the early hours.
- Muden’s Zone: Pygmy Hippo Enclosure (Check the zoo map for directions).
- Special Activities: Sometimes, visitors can participate in feeding experiences!
4. Exploring Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Aside from Muden, Khao Kheow Open Zoo offers many attractions.
Zoo Highlights
✔ Night Safari – Experience nocturnal animals in action.
✔ Animal Feeding Zones – Interact with giraffes, elephants, and monkeys.
✔ Massive Park Size – The zoo covers an area 90 times the size of Tokyo Dome. Trams are available for easy transportation.
5. Muden-Themed Merchandise & Souvenirs
Due to Muden’s skyrocketing popularity, exclusive merchandise is now available!
Top Muden Souvenirs
✓ Muden Plush Toy – Soft and squishy, just like the real thing!
✓ T-shirts & Mugs – Featuring adorable Muden designs.
✓ LINE Stickers – Muden’s cute expressions in sticker form.
✓ Cosmetic Collaborations – Muden-themed skincare products are also available.
These items can be purchased at the zoo’s gift shop and through online stores.
6. Conclusion
Muden is Thailand’s newest animal superstar, drawing thousands of visitors and making waves on social media. If you’re in Thailand, don’t miss the chance to see this adorable pygmy hippo in person at Khao Kheow Open Zoo!
Key Takeaways
✔ Muden is the cutest baby pygmy hippo in Thailand.
✔ Social media and live streams helped Muden gain global fame.
✔ You can visit Muden at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi.
✔ Exclusive Muden-themed merchandise is now available.
For expats and travelers in Thailand, a visit to Muden’s home is a must. Don’t miss the chance to experience the cutest hippo in the world!
