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Omaha Zoo Announces First Orangutan Pregnancy in Over a Decade
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Omaha, NE – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium announced today a significant milestone: a Sumatran orangutan is pregnant, marking the first successful pregnancy at the zoo in more than ten years. The news,shared on February 29,2024,brings renewed hope for the critically endangered species.
The expectant mother is 31-year-old Elvira, and the father is 29-year-old Bumi.Zoo officials confirmed the pregnancy through routine veterinary checkups and hormone level monitoring. The gestation period for orangutans is approximately eight and a half months,meaning the birth is anticipated in late fall 2024.
The Importance of Orangutan Conservation
Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered, facing threats from habitat loss due to deforestation, primarily for palm oil plantations, and illegal hunting.According to the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Program (SOCP), fewer than 14,600 Sumatran orangutans remain in the wild. Every birth is crucial for the long-term survival of this incredible species,
stated Dr. Jayanthi Kumar, the zoo’s director of animal health.
Did You Know?
Orangutans share 97% of their DNA with humans, making them one of our closest living relatives.
A History of Orangutan Success at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo has a long-standing commitment to orangutan conservation. The zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Sumatran orangutans, which aims to maintain a genetically diverse and healthy population in North American zoos. This pregnancy is a direct result of the careful management and breeding recommendations of the SSP.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Elvira & Bumi Arrive at Omaha Zoo | 2018 |
| Pregnancy Confirmed | February 29, 2024 |
| Estimated Birth Date | Late Fall 2024 |
| Wild Sumatran Orangutan Population (approx.) | < 14,600 |
Monitoring and Care
Zoo staff are closely monitoring Elvira’s health and well-being throughout her pregnancy. She is receiving specialized nutrition and prenatal care to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery. The zoo is preparing a dedicated space for Elvira and her newborn, providing a safe and stimulating environment.
Pro Tip:
You can support orangutan conservation efforts by choosing products made with sustainably sourced palm oil.
“This pregnancy represents a significant achievement for our team and a hopeful step forward for orangutan conservation,” said Dennis Pate, CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
The zoo plans to share updates on Elvira’s progress throughout her pregnancy, including photos and videos, on their website and social media channels. The birth of an orangutan is a rare and special event, and the zoo is excited to share this journey with the public.
What are your hopes for the new orangutan baby? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this exciting news with your friends and family.
Orangutan Background & Trends
Orangutans are native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. They are highly smart primates known for their distinctive reddish-brown fur and arboreal lifestyle. The biggest threat to their survival remains deforestation driven by the demand for palm oil. Conservation efforts are increasingly focused on habitat restoration and sustainable palm oil production. The
