Taipei Zoo's premature orangutan continues to improve in intensive care

Taipei, Aug. 19 (CNA) Taipei Zoo said Wednesday that premature orangutan Da Pao (大寶) continues to improve in intensive care, as the zoo marked International Orangutan Day.

Da Pao and its twin, Hsiao Pao (小寶), were born by cesarean section to Bornean orangutan Ke Yi (可乙) on June 29. Hsiao Pao died shortly after from premature-birth-related complications, including respiratory distress syndrome.

Da Pao was born with underdeveloped lungs and other organs and initially required intubation and a ventilator, the zoo said, adding that the breathing tube has since been removed as Da Pao's ability to breathe independently improved.

According to the zoo, Da Pao experienced lung collapse and inflammation and still requires supplemental oxygen through a high-flow nasal cannula. Its digestive system is also immature, causing episodes of bloating and digestive difficulties that require continued monitoring.

The zoo said Da Pao's weight is gradually increasing, while its activity, limb movements and responses to external stimuli have become more pronounced. Staff recently began bottle-feeding the primate to help develop its sucking and swallowing abilities.

However, the zoo stressed that Da Pao is not yet out of danger, as its organs are still developing. As a result, the animal will only be reunited with its mother when it is sufficiently mature and stable.

Bornean orangutans are critically endangered, with wild populations threatened by deforestation, habitat loss, poaching and illegal trade, the zoo said.

Their slow reproductive rate and long period of dependence on their mothers for survival also mean populations can take a long time to recover from decline, it added.