The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to three remarkable Bornean orangutans: Khali, Sulango, and Dumplin. These gentle giants captivate visitors with their unique personalities and remarkable adaptations, making them a must-see attraction for any zoo enthusiast.
The Newest Addition: Khali and Her Baby
In a joyous event, the Columbus Zoo welcomed a new addition to the orangutan family on November 28, 2023. Khali, a first-time mother, gave birth to a healthy female baby, delighting both the zoo staff and visitors alike. This momentous occasion marks the first Bornean orangutan birth at the Columbus Zoo in over 60 years, underscoring the importance of the zoo’s conservation efforts.
As a semi-social species, the zoo has taken great care to ensure a smooth introduction between the new family members and the older orangutans, Dumplin and Sulango. This delicate process allows the orangutans to establish their social dynamics and bond with the newest member of the troop.
Dumplin: The Remarkable Matriarch
At the ripe age of 49, Dumplin is one of the oldest female Bornean orangutans in human care in the United States. This remarkable matriarch has captured the hearts of visitors with her unique projects, tech-savviness, and her role as an advocate for her species.
Dumplin’s participation in voluntary blood draws and other health-monitoring training sessions has not only contributed to the understanding of her species but has also served as an inspiration for conservation efforts. Her willingness to engage in these activities demonstrates the strong bond between the orangutans and their caretakers, as well as the zoo’s commitment to the well-being of these endangered primates.
Sulango: The Gentle Giant
Sulango, the third member of the Columbus Zoo’s orangutan family, is a gentle giant who captivates visitors with his calm demeanor and curious nature. As the older male in the troop, Sulango plays a crucial role in the social dynamics of the group, providing guidance and stability to the younger members.
Visitors to the Columbus Zoo have the unique opportunity to observe Sulango’s interactions with the other orangutans, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex social structures within this species. His presence, along with Dumplin and Khali, highlights the importance of maintaining a diverse and thriving orangutan population in captivity.
Conserving the Critically Endangered Bornean Orangutan
The Bornean orangutan is a critically endangered species, with their population estimated to be between 70,000-100,000 individuals. The primary threat to their survival is the rapid decline of their natural habitat, which has decreased by more than 80% over the past 20 years due to logging and the clearing of land for oil palm plantations.
The Columbus Zoo recognizes the importance of conservation efforts and has taken an active role in supporting projects that benefit the Bornean orangutan. The zoo has teamed up with the HUTAN-Kinabatangan Orangutan Conservation Programme to educate local communities and improve habitats, ensuring a brighter future for these remarkable primates.
Supporting Orangutan Conservation
Visitors to the Columbus Zoo can contribute to the conservation of Bornean orangutans by making informed choices when it comes to purchasing products. By purchasing items made from sustainably-sourced palm oil and using the PalmOil Scan app to identify orangutan-friendly products, visitors can play a direct role in supporting the preservation of these endangered species.
Additionally, the zoo’s orangutan indoor viewing habitat is currently closed to guests while the newly-expanded orangutan family bonds. This temporary closure allows the zoo staff to prioritize the well-being of the orangutans and ensure a smooth transition for the new addition to the troop.
Conclusion
The Columbus Zoo’s Bornean orangutans are a true testament to the wonders of the natural world. From the joyous arrival of Khali’s baby to the remarkable achievements of Dumplin, and the gentle presence of Sulango, these primates captivate visitors and inspire conservation efforts.
By supporting the zoo’s initiatives, visitors can play a vital role in ensuring the survival of the Bornean orangutan and preserving the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems. So, plan your visit to the Columbus Zoo today and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of these incredible creatures.