Vitalik Buterin Adopts Viral Hippo Moo Deng

Crypto News

Vitalik Buterin Becomes an Adoptive Father for Viral Hippo Moo Deng

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: December 27, 2024

Key Takeaways

Vitalik Buterin donated 10 million Thai baht to sponsor Moo Deng, a viral pygmy hippo, ensuring her care for the next two years;
Moo Deng’s fame inspired memecoins, with Buterin previously donating $180,000 in Ethereum from them to a biotech charity;
The partnership between Buterin and Khao Kheow Zoo highlights how crypto philanthropy can support conservation efforts.

Stop overpaying - start transferring money with Ogvio. Sign up, invite friends & grab Rewards now! 🎁

Vitalik Buterin Becomes an Adoptive Father for Viral Hippo Moo Deng

BITDEGREE IN YOUR SOCIAL FEED

Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum ETH $2,996.27 co-founder, has become an adoptive sponsor of Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus at Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

The Thailand-based zoo announced the news on December 26, sharing that Buterin contributed 10 million Thai baht, roughly $292,000, to support Moo Deng and her care over the next two years.

The zoo expressed gratitude for Buterin’s involvement, highlighting the importance of the donation in ensuring Moo Deng’s care. They look forward to collaborating with him over the next two years, as his contribution will improve the hippo’s living conditions and support for her family.

What Are Crypto Rollups? ZKSnarks vs Optimistic Rollups (ANIMATED)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

In response to the announcement, Buterin expressed his enthusiasm for helping Moo Deng. He said:

I'm happy to be adoptive father to Moo Deng as she grows up over the next 2y and support her with my 10M THB donation, maybe more as I set aside 88 ETH for Moo Deng + frens. May they live long and prosper.

In September 2024, Moo Deng became an internet sensation through her expressive personality and playful videos shared by the zoo. Her popularity drew attention from global audiences, and now, with Buterin’s support, her story continues to inspire.

As Vitalik Buterin supports wildlife conservation, he also advocates for innovation in the crypto industry, particularly in privacy and security. What’s his vision for the next generation of Web3 wallets? Read the full story.