Dublin Zoo’s Unique Parenting Class for Orangutan Makes Headlines

In an unprecedented move, Dublin Zoo has been working diligently to prepare a critically endangered Bornean orangutan named Mujur for motherhood. The 19-year-old orangutan had previously given birth twice, but tragically, both of her infants had not survived. Recognizing the crucial need to equip Mujur with essential maternal skills, the zoo devised an innovative plan involving human breastfeeding and educational videos.

The groundbreaking initiative involved 30 women from lactation groups in Dublin and surrounding areas, who graciously breastfed their babies in front of Mujur. The aim was to familiarize the expectant mother with nurturing behaviours and to teach her the techniques necessary to care for her newborn. The proactive approach was undertaken as Mujur had exhibited difficulties in demonstrating the required maternal instincts in the past, leading to the loss of her previous offspring.

The news comes as a ray of hope amid alarming statistics concerning the Bornean orangutan population. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has classified Bornean orangutans as critically endangered, with their numbers on a steep decline due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and other threats. The zoo’s unwavering commitment to ensuring Mujur’s ability to care for her newborn is a crucial step in the conservation of this species.

Additionally, Mujur was provided with educational materials in the form of videos showcasing other orangutans caring for their young. Her interest and engagement with these videos were encouraging, as she showed a keen interest in observing and imitating their actions. Despite these efforts, after the birth of her most recent offspring on July 31, Mujur struggled to position her son correctly for feeding, prompting the zoo to intervene by providing around-the-clock care and ultimately placing the newborn under the care of a specialized institution.

The subsequent separation of the unnamed infant orangutan from Mujur was a difficult decision, driven by the recognition of the newborn’s significance and genetic profile inherited from his late father, who passed away earlier this year. The zoo’s decision to entrust the care of the newborn to Monkey World, a specialist institution in the U.K. known for its expertise in hand-raising orangutans, reflects their unwavering commitment to the welfare and preservation of this endangered species.

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While bidding farewell to the newborn will undoubtedly be challenging for the dedicated team at Dublin Zoo, they are confident that this move is in the best interest of the young orangutan’s continued development and well-being. The compassionate and meticulous efforts of the zoo staff, combined with the outpouring of community support, demonstrate a shared commitment to the conservation of Bornean orangutans and the protection of endangered wildlife worldwide.