Thai Zoo Conducts Hippo Escape Drill With Moo Deng Mascot Costume

A zoo in Thailand recently conducted a drill to test zookeepers’ response to an animal escape, using a mascot version of their famous resident, Moo Deng the pygmy hippo. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo featured a staff member in a Moo Deng costume staging an “escape” and roaming through public areas. The control team successfully brought the faux hippo back to safety. During the drill, one staff member was lightly injured by the faux hippo, receiving immediate assistance. Veterinarians also practiced tranquilizing and examining the fake Moo Deng before returning it to the enclosure. The real Moo Deng, who recently turned one, was unharmed during the exercise. (Upi)