ABQ BioPark Sad to Share News of Orangutan Death
Male orangutan was newest member of the BioPark’s troop
Early two months ago, the ABQ BioPark announced the arrival of a 24-year-old male Sumatran orangutan named Elok. On Tuesday, July 22, the BioPark tearfully said goodbye as Elok succumbed to cardiac arrest during treatment for a sudden illness.
Elok’s behavior and appetite were normal on Monday, but when animal care staff arrived Tuesday morning they found Elok showing signs of gastrointestinal distress. Veterinary teams took action when his condition did not improve. Elok had a known pre-existing heart condition and, despite all efforts, experienced a cardiac event and could not be revived.
Elok was 24 years old; the median life expectancy for male Sumatran orangutans is 25.4 years.
“Though we only got to spend a small amount of time with him, we will remember him forever,” said Amber Alink, BioPark curator of primates and elephants. “He was incredibly intelligent and loved interacting with the animal care staff as much as we loved interacting with him. He was a truly special orangutan.”
The four other orangutans at the BioPark are behaving normally and not showing any symptoms of Elok’s illness. They, along with the three siamangs that reside in Asia, are being closely monitored for any slight changes in health or behavior.
As a critically endangered species, every Sumatran orangutan plays a vital role in raising awareness and inspiring action. Elok will be remembered for the connection he helped foster between people and wildlife.
MEDIA: B-roll of Elok is available here.
The ABQ BioPark Director, Brandon Gibson, will also be available today (7/24) at 3 pm. Please meet at the zoo entrance.