Paignton Zoo's orangutans reunited

Dad back with infant

After almost three months apart, Paignton Zoo’s family of orangutans are back together and cuter than ever! 

Since baby Ranbi was born back in October, he and his mother Chinta have been separated from male Wousan.

Keepers made the decision to keep the first-time father away from baby Ranbi for a short period of time to ensure that the baby was safe and healthy and give the mother and baby time to bond. 

This eliminates the risk of the father being too rough, even accidentally, potentially causing the baby injury – separating the group for a little while ensures the whole family stays safe.

Their reunion happened during the zoo’s two-week closure, and keepers even caught the family cuddling up together soon after they were reintroduced and the family are back together once again.

Keeper Georgina Barnes said: “We are so pleased with the introduction. We took all precautions but in the end, it was all very calm and Chinta is a great, protective mum ensuring the introduction went well. 

We’re happy with how gentle the father is being with the newborn and it’s great to see them back together.”

Bornean orangutans are critically endangered in the wild due to their loss of habit caused by unsustainable palm oil production, illegal logging and agriculture.

The zoo is working hard to boost the species' population.

You can spot the family in the Ape Centre at Paignton Zoo - find out more about adoption here.