36-year-old Audubon Zoo orangutan dies

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The Audubon Zoo has announced the death of its 36-year-old orangutan named Feliz.

Audubon leaders said Feliz was brought to the zoo in 1989 and died suddenly following a brief illness. They said her care team and veterinarians worked “around the clock” to care for her and they are waiting for pathology results to determine the cause of her illness.

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Feliz was a Sumatran orangutan and came to the Audubon Zoo from Texas’ Glady Porter Zoo.

Feliz’s caretakers said she was known for making “stylish clothing” with sheets and blankets. Audubon leaders said she also liked to dance for zoo guests and paint.

“Feliz will be fondly remembered for her perfect bangs, fuzzy apricot colored chin, and all-around perfect personality. She will always have a piece of our hearts,” said Curator of Primates, Louisiana Swamp, and Jaguar Jungle at Audubon Zoo Liz Wilson.

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Audubon leaders said Feliz was the mother of 15-year-old orangutan “Menari” and 5-year-old orangutan “Bulan.” She was also a grandmother to 2-year-old orangutan “Roux.”

According to the Audubon Zoo, Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered.

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