Benz, the caretaker "Moo Deng" affirms the pen's condition is a natural behavior of the hippopotamus and emphasizes there is no profit motive, while Khao Kheow Open Zoo prepares to enhance animal welfare through the project "Hippo Village"
On 17 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Narongwit Chodchoi, director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, addressed the controversy surrounding the pen of Moo Deng, the star hippopotamus. He expressed gratitude for the global concern from the public and fans regarding Moo Deng's living conditions, and clarified the facts to ensure mutual understanding. He emphasized that the zoo prioritizes animal health and happiness and strictly adheres to international animal welfare standards.
The images circulated on social media likely show animal waste deposited during the day, which is normal hippopotamus behavior as they often defecate in water or on land to mark territory. Meanwhile, animal caretakers clean the area every morning regularly according to standards set by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
Regarding the environment, the Khao Kheow Open Zoo director explained that pygmy hippos require high humidity. The design with soil, mud, and aquatic plants follows biological principles to allow the animals to exhibit natural behaviors and maintain skin health, not due to neglect.
For long-term development, the zoo plans to implement the Hippo Village project on about 10 rai of land, with construction plans approved. It aims to accommodate six pygmy hippos and seven large hippos in spacious habitats suited to their ecosystems. Construction will proceed in phases to minimize noise and activities that might startle the animals.
The zoo affirmed its commitment to continuously modernize and beautify the exhibition area in line with animal welfare principles. It also welcomes public feedback through the zoo's communication channels to collaboratively elevate sustainable animal care quality.
Meanwhile, Benz Atthaphon, caretaker of Moo Deng, revealed that his role as a zookeeper primarily involves caring for the zoo's animals, including monitoring behavior, preparing food, observing eating habits, and recording data on the animals at Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
Regarding Moo Deng, he treats the hippo like other animals—bathing it in the morning, observing behavior, preparing food, monitoring eating habits daily, and recording information. The green color of the hippo pond water is normal; water is regularly changed in the morning, but after the hippos enter and sunlight hits in the afternoon, the water turns green naturally. By the next morning, it is clear again. Visitors arriving in the morning will see clear water, while those in the afternoon will notice the natural green hue.
On the issue surrounding Moo Deng, he stated that he provides regular care without special treatment or profit motives and does not operate the care as a business. His duty is to care for animals as assigned. Every animal under his or other staff members' care receives good attention, not only those with public interest. The team shares responsibility for caring for Moo Deng; he is not the sole caretaker and also looks after other assigned animals.