This adorable contest is the perfect distraction from the stressful political elections. The true showdown isn’t between US candidates but is between two tiny pygmy hippos: Haggis from Edinburgh Zoo and Moo Deng from Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo. These baby hippos have captured hearts worldwide over how cute they are. Each brings its charm to a battle of cuteness for their fans. These two are currently more loved by people worldwide than any celebrity.
The Adorable Tale of Two Hippos
Haggis has been named after Scotland’s famous national dish. It was introduced by the Edinburgh Zoo, which playfully teased, “Moo Deng? Who deng?” as it launched her on social media. They’re trying to get a piece of Moo-Deng’s popularity. This mini-hippo has fans buzzing about her adorably wrinkled face and her playful nature. Born on October 30, Haggis is the zoo’s star. Visitors can even buy tickets for a chance to meet her once she’s ready for visitors.
Haggis is even being called the new Moo-Deng.
Meanwhile, Moo Deng – meaning “bouncy pork” in Thai – had an earlier start. Since her July debut, Moo Deng’s chubby cheeks and sweet pinkish skin have catapulted her to viral fame, and she’s been the star of countless memes. The Khao Kheow Zoo is now trademarking her name and even plans to release merchandise with her likeness to fund zoo projects. 
What makes this contest more than just a cuteness overload and unique is its cause. Both zoos are leveraging the popularity of their tiny hippos to draw attention to the cause of pygmy hippos. They are an endangered species with only about 2,500 left in the wild. By creating this online rivalry, lighthearted in nature, they’re helping raise funds and awareness about habitat loss and poaching challenges faced by these animals.
However, after the online buzz took off, the Edinburgh Zoo ended up issuing a friendly apology. They acknowledged that there’s room for both Haggis and Moo Deng in the spotlight. Posting that they’re apologetic for pitting the two against one another.
Whether you’re Team Haggis or Team Moo Deng, this contest is an adorable reminder of the power animals have to bring joy and awareness to important causes
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