Zookeepers say the unnamed baby is part of a breeding scheme to protect the species which is at risk of extinction
A baby orangutan has been born at Blackpool Zoo as part of efforts to save an endangered species. The 'very special' arrival is the first Bornean orangutan to be born at the zoo in 20 years.
The WWF estimates there are just over 100,000 left in the wild. Zoo director Darren Webster said breeding programmes were 'absolutely vital' to help safeguard the future of the species.He said: "The arrival of this very special baby is wonderful news, not just for us here at Blackpool Zoo, but for the species too."
Kawan, who is also 13, arrived from Apenheul Zoo in the Netherlands and was an instant hit with the females, zookeepers said. "Kawan’s arrival marked the beginning of a new start after our previous male, Ramon moved to a group in Germany that was more suited to him for breeding. Ramon settled in well in his new family and has now become a father himself, so we are delighted that the move was a huge success for both collections.
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