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Did somebody say
P-A-R-T-Y? Well, that is exactly what the staff at Como Zoo did this
morning in “Celebration” of Jaya, the youngest of the zoo’s
Orangutans. Jaya turned the big 6 today! Arriving via C-Section on
December 13, 2007, Jaya is nothing short of a miracle for celebration for all
of the staff at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Jaya holds the record for the fastest reintroduction to mother Markisa out of nine
c-sections performed on captive Orangutans after just twelve remarkable and memorable days. After
around the clock care from the keeper staff for the first twelve days of
his life, Jaya was able to spend Christmas Day back in his mother’s arms.
With presents,
cameras, and smiles in place; Zookeepers gave Jaya enrichment while singing
“Happy birthday” for his special day. Enrichment is stimulating activities that
keep the animals mentally and physically healthy. Today Jaya received presents
wrapped in gift paper; footballs, soccer balls, bagels with whip cream and
sprinkles, among other fun objects. All four of Como Zoo’s Orangutans were able
to participate and celebrate on this snowy Friday the 13th, with
Jaya or “Sugar Lips” a nickname given by Como Zoo’s lead Orangutan trainer and
International studbook keeper, Megan Elder.
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Happy birthday
to you Jaya!
