Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has adopted Moo Deng, Thailand's beloved pygmy hippopotamus, through a generous donation of 88 ETH (approximately $292,000) to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
The donation, made through the zoo's Wildlife Sponsorship Program, will be distributed in two equal installments of 5 million Thai Baht each, with the first payment scheduled for December 26, 2024, and the second following exactly one year later.
In his letter to the zoo's director, Buterin expressed admiration for the facility's commitment to animal welfare and education: "I was deeply impressed with your commitment to animal welfare, education, and outreach, as well as fostering a fun community spirit for visitors and staff."
The funds will support zoo improvements, with special attention given to upgrading the Pygmy Hippopotamus habitat. This development aims to enhance the living conditions for Moo Deng, who has become an internet sensation since September 2024.
"I very much look forward to seeing Moo Deng live long and prosper, and how, alongside her, our family and community also thrive," Buterin wrote, highlighting his two-year commitment as Moo Deng's adoptive father.
The donation also serves as a gesture of gratitude from the Ethereum ecosystem to Thailand, acknowledging the country's welcoming attitude toward the crypto community.
While Moo Deng's popularity has inspired a Solana-based memecoin bearing her name, Buterin's contribution focuses on tangible improvements to animal welfare and educational initiatives at the Thai zoo, reinforcing his reputation for meaningful philanthropic endeavors in the cryptocurrency space.