A 40-year-old Sumatran orangutan that lived at Como Park's zoo since 1995 was euthanized last week.
His name was Jambu, and he was born at the Audubon Zoo in Los Angeles before he was relocated to St. Paul over 30-years ago.
Officials at Como Zoo say Jambu was humanely euthanized last Thursday. Veterinarians at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital together with Como’s veterinary team discovered multiple masses on his liver and clinical signs associated with cancer.
His mate and one of their offspring are expected to remain at Como Zoo, and they are reportedly being helped through the transition of life without Jambu.
According to Como Primate Zookeeper Megan Elder, Jambu had a playful and creative spirit, a sweet tooth and loved fruit. He adored blankets and bed sheets and was a skilled weaver who taught his daughter Kemala how to thread fabric through the mesh of the enclosure.
She adds that during training sessions, he enjoyed manicures and pedicures and would patiently present his fingernails to his zookeepers. His keepers remember him as deeply connected to his family.
“I cared for Jambu for twenty three years," said Elder. "He was my rock. He helped build Markisa’s confidence and encouraged Kemala’s curiosity. He always wanted to engage with his babies but waited for mom to tell him it was okay. He was gentle, tolerant, and a wonderful playmate as they grew.”
During his stay at Como, Jambu was part of cardiac ultrasound training for the Great Ape Heart Project. Zoo officials say the project was vital in international conservation and wellness efforts.
The zoo reports Jambu was playful and creative, loved fruit, adored blankets and was even a skilled weaver
