Eve, our female orangutan, delivered Acara via c-section after a prolonged labor mothers day weekend, 2005. Because of the c-section, Eve did not recognize the baby as hers.

Since the birth, staff and volunteers have been taking care of Acara 24 hours a day, seven days a week; all the while trying to introduce her and her mother to each other. The introductions between the two started immediately. Eve was nervous at first, not even sure who or what Acara was. When Acara was very young and not very mobile, staff would encourage Eve to come closer to the baby. Sometimes Acara would reach up to touch or grab her mother’s fur.

During the introductions, staff and volunteers were still taking care of Acara. She needed her daily bottle feedings, as well as learning to eat solid foods. Staff helped the young orangutan learn how to cling to her mother by wearing a vest of fake fur. Staff even built Acara her own “jungle gym” that she could climb on.

After observing their growing bond toward each other, staff took the next step to have the two spend the night together. With a staff member tucked out of sight and checking on the pair through out the evening, mother and daughter slept through Valentine’s night, 2006, together. The pair have been together ever since. The have become good companions to each other, and are growing their “mother-daughter” bond each day.

2008 Update - At the beginning of the year Eve and Acara were reintroduced to Eli, Acara's father.  Things are going well and all three can be seen on exhibit together.  Eli has proved to be very patient and gentle with Acara often letting her climb all over his 350 pounds.