Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is heartbroken to share the passing of Jambu, a beloved male Sumatran orangutan who made Como his home for over thirty years. Jambu was humanely euthanized on Thursday February 19 after veterinarians at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital together with Como’s veterinary team discovered multiple masses on his liver and clinical signs associated with cancer. Early necropsy results showed multiple masses in his liver, intestines, and colon. His recent behavior changes led his dedicated care team to seek advanced diagnostics and ultimately compassionate end of life medical care.
Born at the Audubon Zoo on April 28, Jambu came to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in May of 1995. Over the next three decades he became one of the most recognized and deeply cherished animals at Como. Visitors and staff alike were captivated by his calm strength, thoughtful presence, and gentle expressive eyes.
A Personality Larger Than Life
Como Primate Zookeeper Megan Elder, who is a member of the Association of Zoo and Aquarium’s (AZA) Orangutan Species Survival Plan (SSP) and serves as International Orangutan Studbook Keeper, cared for Jambu for twenty three years and described him as “strong, handsome, yet silly and sweet natured. He was a protector. Every day he would announce himself with his long call and it was incredible to hear.”
A long call is a complex vocalization unique to large flanged males. It signaled his presence and strength and was a sound his care team will deeply miss.
Jambu had a playful and creative spirit. He had a sweet tooth and loved fruit. He adored blankets and bed sheets and was a skilled weaver who taught his daughter Kemala how to thread fabric through the mesh of the enclosure. During training sessions, he enjoyed manicures and pedicures and would patiently present his fingernails to his zookeepers.
His keepers remember him as deeply connected to his family. Megan said “I cared for Jambu for twenty three years. He was my rock. He helped build Markisa’s confidence and encouraged Kemala’s curiosity. He always wanted to engage with his babies but waited for mom to tell him it was okay. He was gentle, tolerant, and a wonderful playmate as they grew.”
Como Primate Zookeeper Mike Marazzi, also a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium’s Orangutan Species Survival Plan on its Husbandry Team, added “Orangutan fathers usually have little or no relationship with their offspring, but Jambu was exceptional. He was always patient with Kemala’s antics and loved playing with her. He was a remarkable father.”
His Place in the Orangutan Family
Jambu lived with his longtime companion Markisa and fathered three offspring: Kemala, Jaya, and Willie. Through his interactions with visitors and his participation in important health monitoring programs including contributions to the Great Ape Heart Project, he served as an ambassador for his critically endangered species.
The median life expectancy for male Sumatran orangutans is just under thirty years. Jambu would have turned forty one in April, a testament to the expert care and devotion provided by Como’s primate and veterinary teams.
A Gentle Presence and a Lasting Legacy
Senior Zookeeper Jill Erzar shared “Jambu was a constant in the building for the past thirty years. His presence was felt and heard throughout the day. I will miss his long calls and his slow shuffles through holding. He had the gentlest eyes. He made the most incredible nests and would snuggle in with sheets or comforters sometimes placing a second tub or pool over his head.”
She added a memory that speaks to his nature. “I only worked with him for a couple of years and orangutans were new to me. One of my first times giving him medication he took the spoon from me and as I started to panic he calmly handed it back as if to only show me that he could.”
Jill also shared one more heartfelt reflection: “I am especially grateful to my team for noticing Jambu’s quality of life changes quickly and advocating for his care. While the euthanasia result is heartbreaking, it was the most compassionate and empathetic thing we could have done for him. We will continue to tell Jambu’s story and his legacy will live on in the things he taught us about his species and in his offspring. Thank you Jambu.”
Moving Forward
Jambu was a treasured member of Como’s animal family and his absence will be felt by staff, volunteers, and the many guests who loved him. He also leaves a space within our orangutan group. Megan and Mike’s leadership in the SSP will help guide the support for both Markisa and Kemala during this transition to ensure their continued wellbeing.
As a critically endangered species, every Sumatran orangutan plays an important role in inspiring action and deepening understanding. Jambu’s life and his gentle connection with people helped countless visitors learn about the urgent need to protect orangutans in the wild.
We invite our community to join us in remembering Jambu and to keep his care team in their thoughts during this difficult time.
