On November 28, 2023, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium welcomed a new member to its family as Bornean orangutan Khali embraced motherhood for the first time, giving birth to Clementine. Since that momentous day, Khali has continually astonished her caretakers with her remarkable maternal abilities, demonstrating unwavering love and protection for her precious offspring.
Khali's Devotion to Clementine
Khali's affection for Clementine is palpable in every interaction. As Clementine blossoms and asserts her independence, Khali's protective instincts only seem to intensify. She vigilantly guides Clementine, preventing her from engaging in certain behaviors like hanging on the mesh or sampling unfamiliar foods and enrichment items. Khali's discerning guidance speaks volumes about her commitment to ensuring Clementine's safety and well-being, echoing the timeless sentiment of "Don't grow up too fast!" cherished by mothers everywhere.
Regarding Khali's interactions with the other orangutans at the Columbus Zoo, Dumplin and Sulango, zookeeper Keith von Stein said, "Dumplin spends a lot of time near Khali, and Clementine and will sometimes not shift into another space without them. We have also seen Dumplin and Khali laying near each other and Dumplin gently reaching out to touch Clementine. We are excited to see this friendship grow once Clementine is more independent from Khali and can climb all over Dumplin. Sulango is also very interested in his daughter! He has been able to touch her a few times but is taking cues from Khali when it is an appropriate time."
Khali's Training Regimen
Khali's exemplary relationship with her caretakers has been pivotal in her journey to motherhood. Throughout her pregnancy, her dedicated team embarked on a journey of innovative training, equipping Khali with the skills necessary to care for herself and her offspring.
Utilizing creative methods, like introducing a lifelike orangutan stuffed animal resembling a newborn, Khali was trained to respond to simulated scenarios where her assistance might be required. Additionally, her willingness to cooperate during medical procedures, like voluntarily presenting her nipples for examination, facilitated crucial health assessments and vaccinations for Clementine.
A noteworthy aspect of Khali's training involved her participation in a voluntary blood draw, with Clementine observing the process firsthand. This experience not only underscored Khali's adaptability but also laid the groundwork for Clementine's future learning, as great apes like orangutans are known to glean behaviors from their peers.
Looking Ahead
As Khali continues to astound with her maternal prowess, the bond between mother and daughter grows stronger with each passing day. Clementine is nurtured in an environment overflowing with love and care, ensuring her holistic development under Khali's watchful gaze.
Visitors to the Columbus Zoo are encouraged to witness this heartwarming journey firsthand by visiting the orangutan habitats in the Australia and the Islands region. There, amidst the lush surroundings, Khali, Clementine, Dumplin, and Sulango await, inviting guests to share in the beauty of their familial bonds.
Join us in celebrating Khali's journey—a testament to the enduring power of maternal love and the remarkable resilience of nature's most captivating creatures.
Visit Australia and the Islands Region at the Columbus Zoo
