Because you came to the Zoo, together we were able to help orangutan conservation in Indonesia, supporting the Orangutan Foundation International and the Orangutan Conservancy. Orangutans are critically endangered in the wild. Many conservationists predict that if any of the five species of great apes become extinct in the wild during this century, it will be the Sumatran orangutan. The wild population has declined dramatically by more than 50 percent during the past few decades.
The El Paso Zoo has focused on Sumatran orangutan conservation efforts as one of its top priorities over the past 10 years. The birth of baby Khaleesi was one of the Zoo’s greatest conservation achievements! Have you seen her on exhibit with mommy Ibu?
Did you know the Zoo has helped orangutans in Indonesia and at the Zoo? In recent years, the Zoo has expanded its conservation efforts to include more targeted education programs and a partnership with UTEP that sent Zoo staff to Indonesia to assist with “hands on” orangutan conservation. Two Zoo staff members have visited Indonesia to help with orangutan conservation efforts. Additionally, the fulltime vet staff at the El Paso Zoo is currently contributing to orangutan heart research and orangutan dental research to help save this endangered species in the wild.
Together, we were able to help these conservation efforts in Indonesia and continue our commit to saving orangutans!
Orangutan Foundation International - Orangutan Foundation International (OFI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation or orangutans and their rainforest habitat. OFI also supports research on orangutans and forests, education initiatives, both local and international, and brings awareness concerning orangutans. Additionally, OFI runs a research center and rehabilitation center.
Orangutan Conservancy - The Orangutan Conservancy (OC) supports rehabilitation centers in Borneo and Sumatra; funds conservation science; supports Indonesian students through our scholarship program; stages the annual Orangutan Conservancy Veterinary Workshop (OC/OVAG); and promotes orangutans and their conservation plight.
During this season of giving, we want to be sure we thank you for the gift of conservation you help give around the globe! While this is only a small sampling of the conservation efforts we’re helping with, if you didn’t come to the Zoo, round your change up at the Zoo cash registers or support the El Paso Zoological Society, none of this would be possible.
So next time you’re at the Zoo, remember you’re not just having a fun adventure at El Paso’s most-visited family attraction remember you’re helping save wildlife around world! For that, this season, we’re most thankful to you.
