In exciting news from the Woodland Park Zoo, Batu, a 14-year-old orangutan, has been announced to be expecting her first baby.

This marks a significant event as she is the first orangutan at the zoo to become pregnant in 35 years. The father, 15-year-old Godek, is also anticipating his first offspring.

Orangutans typically have a gestation period of nine months, and Batu is expected to deliver between late August and early September.

The decision to pair Batu and Godek followed recommendations from the Orangutan Species Survival Plan, a cooperative breeding program aimed at ensuring healthy populations of endangered species across accredited zoos.

Libby Lawson, an animal keeper at Woodland Park Zoo, shared insights into Batu’s upbringing and readiness for motherhood:

“Batu was raised by her mother in a nurturing environment, which has equipped her with valuable personal experience.”

According to the source he said, “her intelligence, confidence, and independent personality were undoubtedly shaped by this upbringing, preparing her well for this significant phase in her life.”

In preparation for the arrival of her baby, Batu will receive both pre-natal and post-natal care similar to what humans receive during pregnancy.

Given that this will be her first experience as a mother, the zoo’s care teams will design a specialized training program focused on developing Batu’s maternal instincts and skills.

The announcement of Batu’s pregnancy has sparked enthusiasm among zoo visitors and wildlife enthusiasts alike, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and breeding programs in maintaining sustainable populations of endangered species like orangutans.

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