Mc-Moo Deng? Scottish zoo welcomes pygmy hippo calf

Published: 00:01, 4 August 2026 | Updated: 00:15, 4 August 2026 A Scottish zoo has welcomed its answer to internet sensation Moo Deng after announcing the birth of a pygmy hippo calf. The tiny youngster was born to parents Otto and Gloria on Friday, July 31, just days after it was announced that Gloria was pregnant. Keepers and vets had expected the calf to arrive some weeks later and were surprised to find the newborn snuggled up to its mother.   The calf is now being cared for by Gloria, with the pair spending their first days feeding, resting and bonding away from the public eye.      Jonny Appleyard, hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, said: 'It has been a really exciting few days for the team and we are all delighted to see Gloria and her calf doing so well.  'Our main aim right now is to give them some private time until they show signs they are ready to meet the world.'  Gloria is already an experienced mum, having given birth to daughter Amara in 2021 and Haggis in 2024.  Haggis became an online favourite after winning thousands of fans with her playful personality and regular appearances on the zoo's social media channels.  Who Deng? Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed a new baby pygmy hippo  Native to forests and swamps in West Africa, it is estimated that only 2,500 are left in the wild due to habitat loss Haggis was born shortly after Moo Deng became a viral sensation after being born at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. Moo Deng, which literally means 'bouncy pork' in Thai, is a type of meatball. The sensation was born on July 10 in 2024, to parents Jonah and Tony. Moo Deng's fame started when zookeepers started posting videos of her on their TikTok account which amassed millions of followers. The hippo's miniature frame and podgy proportions helped inspire a fervent following. Even the Royal Thai Embassy featured the baby hippo on its social media channels. Fans have made artwork and cakes in her image, with one cosmetics chain also telling its customers to 'wear your blush like a baby hippo'. Mr Appleyard said staff had expected a little longer to prepare after revealing Gloria's pregnancy.  He added: 'We were expecting a week or two of calm after announcing Gloria's pregnancy but nature had other ideas.  'It was a real surprise to come in and find a new face tucked up with mum.  'We hope to be able to confirm the wee one's gender following upcoming health checks.'  The zoo has not yet revealed whether the calf is male or female.  For now, keepers are giving Gloria and her newborn plenty of time together before deciding when visitors will be able to see Edinburgh Zoo's latest arrival.