A man has been fined 10,000 baht, equivalent to approximately £233, after being found guilty of trespassing into the enclosure of the viral pygmy hippo Moo Deng and her mother at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. The incident, which occurred on 17 March, was captured on CCTV footage showing the man breaking into the enclosure and recording the endangered animals with a tablet for around two minutes.
Details of the Trespassing Incident
The man entered the enclosure of Moo Deng, who gained internet fame, and her mother, causing the animals to become slightly startled but leaving them unharmed. The zoo authorities reported the breach immediately, leading to the man's arrest and subsequent release on bail. The Chonburi provincial court later heard the case and imposed the fine for the trespassing charge.
Legal Consequences and Animal Welfare
This case highlights the serious legal repercussions of trespassing in zoo enclosures, especially when involving endangered species like pygmy hippos. The fine serves as a deterrent against such reckless behaviour, which can pose risks to both human safety and animal well-being. Zoo officials emphasised that while the hippos were not physically harmed, such intrusions can cause significant stress to wildlife.
The incident underscores the importance of respecting zoo regulations and protecting vulnerable animals from unnecessary disturbances. Authorities have urged visitors to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
