Jolene, the youngest member of the orangutan family at the Oregon Zoo, is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone: her second birthday on Saturday. Born on April 13, 2022, Jolene continues to grow in both independence and personality, although she remains closely bonded with her mother, Kitra.

This footage was filmed and produced 13 April 2024.

Jolene, the youngest member of the orangutan family at the Oregon Zoo, is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone: her second birthday on Saturday. Born on April 13, 2022, Jolene continues to grow in both independence and personality, although she remains closely bonded with her mother, Kitra.

According to Kate Gilmore, who oversees the zoo's primate area, young orangutans typically stay with their mothers for 8 to 10 years. While Jolene is beginning to explore her surroundings more independently, Kitra maintains a watchful eye over her.

As Jolene continues to develop, she is increasingly venturing away from Kitra for extended periods, often engaging in exploration and honing her climbing skills. Hannah Carbonneau, a keeper in the primate area, describes Jolene as a "little gymnast," noting her adeptness at navigating ropes and her enthusiasm for trying new things.

Like any toddler, Jolene exhibits a playful and curious nature, frequently interacting with her parents and caregivers. Carbonneau highlights Jolene's engagement with her environment, noting her fondness for waving objects around and her interest in learning to use tools, following in the footsteps of her parents.

Visitors to the zoo on Saturday will have the opportunity to witness Jolene's birthday celebration, as she and her parents enjoy special treats and enrichment activities in the afternoon.

Orangutans, classified as critically endangered, face significant threats primarily due to habitat loss driven by deforestation for industries such as logging and palm oil production. The conservation efforts of accredited zoos, such as the Oregon Zoo, play a crucial role in raising awareness and contributing to the preservation of orangutan populations.