The San Diego Zoo is home to a remarkable collection of orangutans, a critically endangered species of great apes found in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. Visitors to the zoo can observe these fascinating primates through the Ape Cam, and learn about the zoo’s most famous orangutan, Ken Allen, known as the “Hairy Houdini” for his clever escapes.
The Diverse Orangutan Population at San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo houses both Sumatran and Bornean orangutans, two distinct subspecies of the orangutan. These great apes are known for their distinctive reddish-brown fur, long arms, and impressive intelligence. The zoo’s current population includes a thriving 7-month-old Sumatran orangutan named Kaja, born in January 2022 to 35-year-old Indah.
Sumatran Orangutans
Sumatran orangutans are a critically endangered subspecies, with only around 14,000 individuals remaining in the wild. They are found in the rainforests of the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The San Diego Zoo’s Sumatran orangutans, including the young Kaja, are part of a vital conservation effort to protect this threatened species.
Bornean Orangutans
Bornean orangutans are also classified as critically endangered, with an estimated population of around 104,700 individuals in the wild. They are native to the rainforests of the Malaysian and Indonesian parts of the island of Borneo. The San Diego Zoo’s Bornean orangutans, such as the famous Ken Allen, play an important role in educating visitors about this endangered great ape.
The Legendary Escape Artist: Ken Allen
One of the San Diego Zoo’s most famous orangutans was Ken Allen, a Bornean orangutan known for his clever ability to escape from his enclosure multiple times. Dubbed the “Hairy Houdini,” Ken Allen’s peaceful demeanor and impressive problem-solving skills during his escapes made him a beloved figure at the zoo.
Ken Allen’s Escapes
Ken Allen’s first escape occurred in 1985, when he managed to outsmart his keepers and leave his supposedly escape-proof enclosure. His subsequent escapes, which occurred several times, only added to his fame, with a fan club, T-shirts, and even a song dedicated to him.
Ken Allen’s Legacy
Ken Allen’s story is considered one of the top zoo escapes by Time magazine, and his legacy continues to captivate visitors to the San Diego Zoo. His ability to outwit his keepers and his peaceful nature during his escapes have made him a legendary figure in the world of zoos and primates.
Visiting the San Diego Zoo Orangutans
Visitors to the San Diego Zoo can observe the orangutans and siamangs (another species of ape) through the Ape Cam, which provides a live stream of the animals’ habitat. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the last entry at 5 p.m.
Admission and Membership Options
Admission to the San Diego Zoo varies, with single-day passes costing $62 for adults and $52 for children aged 3-11. The zoo also offers various membership options, including a one-year membership for $129 for adults and $119 for children.
Observing the Orangutans
Visitors can watch the orangutans and siamangs through the Ape Cam, which provides a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their habitat. The zoo’s knowledgeable staff are also available to answer questions and provide insights into the lives and behaviors of the orangutans.
In conclusion, the San Diego Zoo is home to a remarkable collection of orangutans, including both Sumatran and Bornean subspecies. Visitors can learn about the zoo’s most famous orangutan, Ken Allen, and observe the current population, including the thriving 7-month-old Sumatran orangutan, Kaja. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in these critically endangered great apes.
References:
– Ape Cam | San Diego Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/cams/ape-cam
– 7-month-old Critically Endangered Orangutan Thriving at the San Diego Zoo, Following Mom’s Recovery from Health Complications. (2022, August 19). Retrieved from https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/pr/InfantOrangutanKaja
– Orangutan | San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/orangutan
– Ken Allen – Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ken_Allen
– Ken Allen: San Diego Zoo’s legendary orangutan escape artist. (2023, May 31). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME4H2WN7BEU