A chef baked a hyper-realistic baby hippo cake inspired by Moo Daeng, a two-month-old female hippo, who has become a hit in Thailand.


Footage shows the step-by-step process of how the artistic cook Chalit Kulsaree created the mouthwatering dessert in Bangkok on September 12.

Chalit used fondant as the base and sculpted it to resemble the animal.

The pastry costs 650 Baht (14.84 GBP) per piece, with orders required two to five days in advance from the pastry store Ran Weth Mon in the Thai capital.

Moo Daeng, born on August 10 at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, has gained popularity for her playful nature.

Staff said up to 12,000 visitors a day are flocking to see her. She even has a large following online.

However, carers at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo have warned visitors not to overdo their kindness as it could harm the animal.

Zoo manager Narongwit Chodchoi said some visitors have been throwing shellfish and even splashing water on Moo Deng to try to coax her out of sleep.

He added: 'This behaviour is not only cruel but also dangerous. We must protect these animals and ensure that they have a safe and comfortable environment.'

Narongwit said the zoo has installed CCTV cameras around the enclosures and threatened legal action against those who mistreat the baby hippo.