Taipei Zoo's Premature Orangutan "Xiao Bao" Dies; Twin "Da Bao" Critically Ill
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A premature orangutan baby, "Xiao Bao," born via C-section at Taipei Zoo, died due to respiratory distress.
- The surviving twin, "Da Bao," remains in critical condition and is receiving intensive care.
- The zoo is grateful for medical support and asks the public to send well wishes for "Da Bao."
Taipei Zoo announced the tragic death of "Xiao Bao," a premature orangutan born via emergency C-section. The infant orangutan succumbed to respiratory distress syndrome despite over an hour of intensive medical intervention. The zoo expressed profound grief and sorrow over the loss, with the entire staff mourning the infant's passing.
"Xiao Bao's" twin, "Da Bao," is also suffering from neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. The surviving twin is under constant 24-hour monitoring and treatment by veterinarians and zookeepers. The zoo is appealing to the public to send positive energy and support for "Da Bao's" fight for survival, as the next few days are critical.
Xiao Bao's physiological indicators began to fluctuate drastically yesterday afternoon, showing signs of respiratory distress. The medical team immediately launched emergency rescue efforts, but unfortunately, due to the congenital developmental limitations caused by premature birth, Xiao Bao's heartbeat stopped at 00:38 today, and rescue efforts were declared ineffective.
The mother orangutan, "Ke Yi," is recovering well from the C-section surgery, with her physiological indicators stable. The veterinary team is closely monitoring her wound healing and nutritional intake. The zoo extended its gratitude to all parties and medical partners for their unwavering support throughout the challenging process.
Despite the loss of "Xiao Bao," the zoo remains committed to dedicating all its medical resources and interdisciplinary expertise to save "Da Bao." They are working closely with neonatology experts from National Taiwan University Hospital, who are providing crucial guidance on respiratory support, medication dosages, and physiological monitoring strategies. The zoo hopes that "Da Bao" will overcome this critical period and survive.
Da Bao shows a strong will to survive, but the next few days will be critical for its life. We desperately need everyone to send their best wishes for Da Bao to help it safely overcome the difficulties.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.