This is the amusing moment a hungry baby hippo nibbled on a zookeeper's leg.

Moo Deng, the two-month-old hippopotamus, attempted to playfully bite the man in their enclosure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, on September 12.

Footage shows the staff rubbing soap on the feisty animal, while its mother can be seen eating vegetables in the background.

The worker did not suffer any injuries as he wore rain boots to protect his leg from the hippo's adorably harmless attack.

They said: 'Moo Deng was just being affectionate. He does this because he's young.'

Hippos are known to be social animals. This behaviour helps them learn social cues and establish relationships within their group. Their playful nature also allows them to explore and learn about their surroundings.