Just some good news in Tampa this week: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced the birth of a critically endangered female Bornean Orangutan. The birth signifies a milestone in Orangutan conservation efforts among accredited zoological facilities, like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, who participate in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP) to ensure the welfare and future prosperity of this newborn and her species.
Delivered via cesarean section on Saturday, April 13, to Luna, the resident Bornean Orangutan at the park, the newborn tipped the scales at three pounds and four ounces. A collaborative effort involving medical and zoological experts from various organizations ensured that both mother and baby received top-notch care during the delivery process.
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A major milestone for conservation at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Currently in recovery, Luna is under round-the-clock care at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s cutting-edge Orangutan house, as she recuperates from surgery. Once both Luna and her newborn are stable, they will be reunited and kept under the vigilant watch of the park’s expert animal care team.
Exclusively found on the captivating island of Borneo, the Bornean Orangutan holds the esteemed title of being the third largest ape species and the largest arboreal, or tree-dwelling, ape species. Unfortunately, this magnificent creature is in critical danger, listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Baby Orangutan inspires hope across the world
The recent addition to the park’s troop underscores Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s commitment to conservation through its participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP). This initiative aims to collaboratively manage specific species populations within AZA-accredited facilities like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay while also enlightening guests about their pivotal role in environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.
Guests interested in following Luna and her newborn’s progress are encouraged to follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on social media.
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