Pasan Nanayakkara
Orangutan dads are not known for being particularly involved in the care of their offspring. Unlike their female counterparts, who spend most of their lives with their children, male orangutans tend to be more distant and detached. However, one orangutan at the Denver Zoo recently broke this mold and captured the hearts of visitors and staff alike.
After the unexpected passing of Nias, the matriarch of the Sumatran orangutan family at the Denver Zoo, her mate Berani stepped up to take care of their two-year-old daughter Cerah. Nias had been a beloved member of the zoo community since 2005, entertaining visitors and raising awareness for her endangered species. Her untimely death came as a shock to everyone, leaving Hesty, 10 and Cerah without a mother.
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But Berani, known as the “gentle giant” among zoo staff, stepped in to fill the role of both parents for his young daughter. Primate Keeper Cindy Cossaboon, who had been with Nias since her arrival at the zoo, observed Berani’s nurturing behavior towards Cerah and was moved by the bond they shared.
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“It’s one of those situations where you have this awful storm, and then you have the rainbow at the end. He’s doing an excellent job. We couldn’t have asked for better treatment for her,” Cossaboon said. Berani could be seen comforting Cerah when she cried, snuggling with her before bed and standing guard over her while she slept.
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Despite the tragic loss of Nias, Berani’s devotion to his daughter serves as a reminder of the powerful bond between parents and children, and the lengths they will go to protect and care for their young. It also highlights the striking similarities between orangutans and humans, particularly in terms of family dynamics and the role of fathers in raising their children.
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The Denver Zoo community continues to grieve for Nias, but Berani’s love for Cerah offers a heartwarming and uplifting story that has touched the hearts of many. As Cossaboon said, “It’s really great to see something that can offer us all joy and give us something to look forward to.” The public’s attention to the bonding moment of Berani and Cerah is expected to raise more awareness for orangutans, their vulnerability, and the importance of conservation efforts.
It is an incredibly rare sight to see an orangutan dad raising his daughter alone, but Berani’s love and devotion towards Cerah is a testament to the depth and strength of family bonds. Berani reminds us that family is not only defined by biology or genetics, but by the love and care we provide to those around us. As we learn more about Berani and Cerah’s story, let us remember to cherish the special bonds in our own lives and to strive to make them stronger.
