Intruder in custody after leaping into Moo Deng enclosure

A man has been detained after he jumped into the enclosure of a world-famous pygmy hippo at an open zoo in Chonburi in an attempt to take photos and video, prompting a warning from the zoo that hippos are dangerous animals which can attack if provoked.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo said the incident occurred at around 5pm yesterday, when the man intruded into the enclosure containing ‘Moo Deng’, a hugely popular pygmy hippo, causing alarm among visitors and staff.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page today, the zoo said the intruder, a Thai national, took advantage of a moment when staff were not present to sneak into the prohibited zone.

Security personnel detained the man and handed him over to police for further investigation.

Authorities are gathering evidence to determine his motive and are considering the taking of legal action against him, the zoo said, adding that it will pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law to uphold safety and animal welfare standards.

A video released by the zoo showed a man in a sleeveless shirt and shorts using a tablet to film Moo Deng and its mother inside the enclosure. Both animals appeared to be looking at him.

Moo Deng and its family were not physically harmed, though they may have been slightly startled by the close encounter. Veterinarians will continue to monitor their behaviour closely.

Despite their cute appearance, the zoo said pygmy hippos and hippos in general are highly territorial and possess powerful jaws. Entering their enclosure could startle them and trigger an immediate attack, it warned.

The zoo thanked members of the public and fans who reported the incident and expressed concern, saying their cooperation helps support efforts to protect animals.

It also urged visitors to follow rules and staff instructions strictly for their own safety and that of the animals, warning that any such behaviour will result in legal action.