Moo Deng - internet's most loved pygmy hippo, has received a Christmas gift worth Rs 2.48 crore from one of the most influential figures in the crypto world - Vitalik Buterin. Buterin, co-founder of the Ethereum blockchain platform, has adopted the hippo—known for attention-seeking antics—through a whopping donation of 10 million Thai baht to Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. In a Facebook post on Dec 26, Chonburi province’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo thanked Buterin for joining its wildlife sponsorship programme, which allows participants to 'adopt' an animal through donations. “I very much look forward to seeing Moo Deng live long and prosper,” Buterin said.The Ethereum co-founder explained that his donation was a gesture of appreciation to Thailand after several successful Ethereum events in the country. “What better way to do that than through a Christmas present to someone who is dear to all Thai people, Moo Deng, and who has become one of the most unexpected and important Thai celebrities on the world stage,” he added.During his visit to the zoo in November, Buterin expressed his admiration for its dedication to animal welfare, education, and community engagement. He described himself as 'deeply impressed' by these efforts and shared his enthusiasm for the institution’s future development plans. “I was particularly excited to hear your plans for improvements to the zoo itself, especially the proposal for upgrades to the Pygmy Hippopotamus habitat. I am delighted to accept your invitation to be Moo Deng’s adoptive father while she grows up and to donate to the zoo in her name,” Buterin said in the letter.