Virginia Zoo Celebrates the Birth of 'Critically Endangered' Bornean Orangutan

Virginia Zoo took to social media to celebrate the birth of a "critically endangered" Bornean Orangutan and share its first photos.

The zoo took to social media to share the incredible news and explain a little more about why this baby is as incredible as it is. Take a look!

On July 3, 2024, the Virginia Zoo shared a post to Instagram, introducing the new baby Orangutan.

Related: Virginia Zoo Celebrates Surprise Birth of Endangered Siamang

"The wait is over," the zoo shared, "We are overjoyed to announce a critically endangered Bornean Orangutan was born to parents Dara and Solaris on June 29."

Any new birth at the zoo is good news, but this one is particularly so since Bornean Orangutans are considered "critically endangered."

"The birth represents a major conservation success for the Virginia Zoo, as this baby is only the second-ever orangutan to be born at the Zoo, their announcement on Instagram explains.

But it's also great news for the species since, in the wild, it "faces rapid habitat destruction and population loss in the wild."

Thankfully, both mom and baby are "doing well and bonding," and the staff are keeping a close eye on the health of the family.

"Keepers and veterinary staff will continue to monitor the pair behind the scenes for now," the announcement explains, "while Solaris will be in the outdoor exhibit area to allow mom and baby space to recover and bond."

Bornean Orangutan Population in the Wild Is 'Critically Endangered'

According to The International Union for Conservation of Nature ( IUCN ), Bornean Orangutans are at risk of extinction due to continued and devastating habitat loss and illegal hunting.

"The two major reasons why most Bornean Orangutans populations are in sharp decline are (1) destruction, degradation and fragmentation of their habitats, and (2) hunting," the organization explains.

"Bornean Orangutans decreased by more than 60% between 1950 and 2010, and a further 22% decline is projected to occur between 2010 and 2025," the organization explains, which "equates to a loss of more than 82% over 75 years, 1950–2025."

Given the continuation of population decline, any new baby born is something worth celebrating. Which is what the Virginia Zoo is committed to.

"Bornean orangutans give birth to a single offspring typically every 7 to 9 years and may only have 4 to 5 babies during their lifetime, making each birth vitally important to the species’ survival," the zoo explains.

Adding, “The Virginia Zoo has been committed to the conservation and education of orangutans for many years, and we are thrilled to reach a new conservation milestone with this birth,” Executive Director of the Zoo, Greg Bockheim, said.

“We feel confident this baby will become a fantastic ambassador for its species, inspiring awe and a sense of care in many Zoo visitors, which is our ultimate goal.”