Moo Deng in Texas? Houston Zoo Welcomes New Pygmy Hippo

According to Chron, the Houston Zoo announced that they recently welcomed a 477-pound pygmy hippo named Akobi.

Houston Zoo made the announcement via X where they showcased their newest addition: 4-year-old Akobi.

The little river horse was transferred to Texas from San Francisco per the recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, or AZA.

Who is Moo Deng?

If you are confused as to why the Houston Zoo mentions Moo Deng, let me fill you in. You see, earlier this year, a pygmy hippo in Thailand was taking the internet by storm.

Meet Moo Deng, the feisty pygmy hippo who has stolen hearts since first hitting social media around September 2024.

The name Moo Deng actually translates to 'bouncy pork' in Thai which is... fitting for one of such adorable stature. The zoo in Thailand that first revealed Moo Deng to the public was quick to jump on merchandise and artwork of their star animal.

What are Pygmy Hippos?

This little fella at the Houston Zoo, along with the famous Moo Deng, are actually a part of roughly 2,000 thought to live around the world, according to the Pygmy Hippo Foundation website.

They're actually native to West Africa and are mostly nocturnal. Pair this with the fact that their numbers are so dwindled that little is known about their behaviors in the wild.

What we DO know is that these cuties need our protection if their numbers have any chance of surviving. Live on, Akobi and Moo Deng, we're fighting for you!