2018 was a big year for orangutans at the Sedgwick County Zoo.

We kicked off the year with the birth of Mulia, daughter of Tao and Panji, on January 18. She is now a spunky almost-one-year-old who loves to climb and play and swing just like her mom.

On Sept. 7, we welcomed Lily, daughter of Daisy and Panji, in a more unconventional way – she was delivered via C-section by Drs. Janna Chibry and Laura Whisler, physicians at College Hill OB-GYN. Ever since, Lily and Daisy have kept zookeepers on their toes, challenged to come up with creative ways to care for these beautiful animals. We’ve shared their story on social media, but in case you missed it, you can catch up here:

Lily and Daisy are  thriving together behind the scenes, still working with keepers 24/7 to ensure that Lily gets the care she requires. Daisy participates in Lily’s care by helping Lily get to the mesh barrier for feedings with keepers, and she loves building nests from sheets for the two to snuggle in together. Once Lily is big enough to get around on her own, keepers will begin introducing them to the public habitat and allow them to share space with the other orangutans.

For now, visitors to the KOCH Orangutan and Chimpanzee Habitat will enjoy watching Mulia and Tao together, as well as Panji and Kinali who can always be counted on to bring a smile to our faces.

 

UPDATE: JAN. 28, 2018

We have installed a viewing window into Daisy and Lily’s maternity suite, allowing them time alone behind the scenes for bonding while also offering our visitors the opportunity to meet Lily. She is having a wonderful time interacting with all of her new friends!