ARTICLE
22 January 2025

Moo-vin' Up: Moo Deng Pursuing IP Protection

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Goodmans LLP

Contributor

Goodmans is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s pre-eminent business law firms. Based in Toronto, the firm has market-leading expertise in M&A, corporate and transaction finance, private equity, real estate, tax, restructuring, litigation, intellectual property and other business-related specialties.
Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus living in a Thailand zoo, has captured the attention and adoration of people all over the world.
Canada Intellectual Property

Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus living in a Thailand zoo, has captured the attention and adoration of people all over the world. She has inspired memes, tweets, and even an SNL skit. Moo Deng's immense popularity has reportedly prompted zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi to begin attempting to trademark Moo Deng's image.

Securing trademark protection may ensure that others do not profit from Moo Deng's fame. Kate Miltner, a lecturer at the University of Sheffield's Information School reportedly commented to WIRED that "[p]eople will invariably try to make money off of viral or memetic content, as we've seen time and again." She also pointed out that the Cincinnati Zoo has already led the way for trademarking popular animals with Fiona the Hippo.

Chodchoi reportedly explained that income from Moo Deng's commercialization will be directed towards enhancing the well-being of all animals at Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

The content of this article does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on in that way. Specific advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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