A New Face in the Family: Elok the Orangutan Arrives at ABQ BioPark!
We’re thrilled to announce that Elok (pronounced El-ick), a 24-year-old male Sumatran orangutan, has joined the ABQ BioPark family!
Elok recently arrived from the Oklahoma City Zoo as part of a collaborative effort within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Orangutan Species Survival Plan (SSP) to support the long-term conservation of this critically endangered species.
His move is part of a carefully coordinated plan to support genetic diversity and healthy social structures within the North American orangutan population. Orangutans face serious threats in the wild due to habitat loss for palm oil plantations and agriculture, as well as poaching and the illegal pet trade.
Elok is known for his engaging personality, curiosity, being incredibly smart, and having artistic skills. In fact, he made headlines a few years back for helping create what’s believed to be the world’s first NFT designed by an orangutan! An NFT (non-fungible token) is a digital certificate of ownership represented by a digital art piece.
“We’re excited to welcome Elok to the BioPark,” said Lynn Tupa, Associate Director for the BioPark. “Every animal that joins our community is part of a larger story about protecting species for the future, and Elok’s arrival shows the importance of partnerships and the vital role zoos play in conservation. We’re proud to provide him with a space where he can thrive, and we know our guests will fall in love with him just as quickly as we have.”
During this adjustment period, Elok is being closely monitored and is being given the time and space needed to acclimate. He is currently exploring his new habitat by himself, but his animal care team will be gradually introducing him to the other orangutans in the near future. Here, he will have plenty of opportunities to explore, climb, and swing his way through our expansive, award-winning Asia habitat designed with orangutans’ natural behaviors in mind.
Keep an eye out for Elok during your next visit to the BioPark Zoo! To stay in the know of what Elok and the other orangutans are up to, be sure to keep an eye on our news page and social media for updates.
MEDIA: photos and b-roll.
Elok Arrival Q&A:
Q: When did Elok arrive?
A: Elok arrived on May 29. Like all new animals at the zoo, Elok went through a careful
acclimation period behind the scenes before moving into the orangutan habitat.
Q: Why did Elok move to the BioPark?
A: His move is part of a Species Survival Plan® (SSP) managed by AZA. These expert-
led programs help zoos manage healthy populations of endangered species and make
decisions that support long-term conservation goals.
Q: Will Elok be part of a breeding program?
A: Elok’s transfer supports the SSP’s recommendations, which may include future
breeding opportunities. The BioPark will ensure any introductions are done with the
animals’ well-being as the top priority.
Q: What is Elok like?
A: Elok is known for being smart, curious, and creative—he even helped design an NFT
while living at Oklahoma City Zoo! Our team is excited to get to know him and support
his adjustment with enrichment and specialized care tailored to his needs.
Q: What does “Elok” mean?
A: "Elok" means “good looking” in Malay.