December 08, 2010
A baby orangutan has become the latest addition to join the ever-growing family at Melbourne Zoo.
A spokesperson for the Zoo said mother Maimunah and baby were recovring well after the birth that happened late Monday night.
Keepers on hand to watch the birth of the yet to be named orangutang have remained on duty to watch the progress of mother and baby.
Curator Jan Steele said because of the size of the baby Maimunah would need a significant recovery period.
"We are watching Mai very carefully. At present she is looking uncomfortable and doesn’t want to move, even for her favourite treat, mango," Ms Steele said.
"She needs her rest right now, so she won’t be taking the baby out into public view as yet.
Zoo Director Kevin Tanner said after a full recovery both mother and baby would be brought out of their den to meet the public.
"We are very pleased that mother and baby have now established a good nursing routine, and the baby is looking alert," he said.
"As soon as Mai indicates that she is ready to move out of her night dens and bring her baby out to show us all, we will certainly announce that good news.’
About 50 orangutans, an endangered species, die every week in South-east Asia due to the rapid expansion of palm oil plantations.
