CHONBURI — On September 8, 2014, Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province celebrated a special milestone for Mae Mali, a 59-year-old female hippopotamus who holds the title of the oldest living hippo in Thailand. The event, attended by zoo staff, visitors, students, and devoted fans, was marked by a giant cake made of her favorite fruits and vegetables.
Mae Mali, affectionately known as “Mother Mali,” received a birthday feast of dragon fruit, watermelon, apples, papayas, bananas, sweet potatoes, grapes, carrots, and fresh grass. As the elderly hippo slowly emerged from her pond, visitors sang “Happy Birthday,” creating a joyous atmosphere as she happily indulged in her treat. Mae Mali’s appearance, though slow due to her age, brought smiles and left a lasting impression on all who attended.
In addition to the celebration, a donation of 20,000 baht was made by Ratchata Setthaworadhet to support Mae Mali’s care and the construction of a new home designed to accommodate her in her later years. The zoo also organized a range of activities, including an exhibition showcasing Mae Mali’s life, games, and opportunities for visitors to contribute to the “Wildlife Sponsorship Project” aimed at supporting Mae Mali’s well-being.
Mae Mali was originally transferred to Khao Kheow Open Zoo from the now-closed Dusit Zoo on December 18, 2018, after spending decades in Bangkok. Her history dates back to June 8, 1967, when she was brought from Tilburg Zoo in the Netherlands at just one year old. Over her lifetime, Mae Mali has given birth to 14 calves and has been a beloved attraction at the zoo for many years.
Despite her advanced age, Mae Mali is in good health. If she continues to thrive in the coming years, she may become the world’s oldest living hippopotamus, a distinction currently within her reach.
For those wishing to contribute to Mae Mali’s continued care, Khao Kheow Open Zoo invites the public to participate in the “Wild Animal Sponsorship Project” through donations. Contributions over 1,599 baht will earn supporters a commemorative hat marking Mae Mali’s 59th birthday, available in limited quantities.
