San Diego Zoo Orangutan Group Welcomes New Member

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego Zoo's orangutan group recently welcomed a new member.

Labu, a 14-year-old male, arrived March 10 from the Fresno Chaffee Zoo as part of a recommendation from the Species Survival Plan Program based on his genetics and the genetic makeup of the zoo's group, according to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation organization that operates the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

Labu can be seen at the zoo's orangutan habitat, where he is now residing following a quarantine period and introductions to the other members of the group. Zoo officials said he has been adjusting well and is enjoying resting in the hammock and exploring his new space.

Labu has taken on the role of the group's dominant male, and is the first adult male to join the troop since the previous dominant male Satu died in 2021.