Saying Goodbye to Bali, Our Playful Siamang Friend

Beloved Ape Dies at Virginia Zoo, Leaves Lasting Legacy

A cherished siamang ape, a resident of a prominent Virginia zoo for nearly his entire life, has passed away at the age of 21, the facility announced. The animal, known for his distinctive vocalizations and playful nature, had been a favorite among visitors and staff for many years.

A Sudden Turn for the Worse

Zoo caretakers reported that the ape initially responded well to treatment for symptoms related to kidney disease. However, his condition deteriorated rapidly and unexpectedly. A team of veterinary professionals made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him to prevent further suffering after his prognosis became grave.

Remembering a Primate Personality

Born at a zoo in New York, the siamang moved to Virginia while he was still an infant. He was described by animal care staff as an intelligent and charismatic individual with a strong personality. He was often seen gracefully brachiating through the trees in his habitat and was particularly famous for his loud, resonant calls, which are a signature behavior of the siamang species used to mark territory and strengthen pair bonds.

The Impact of a Loss

The siamang's passing represents a significant loss for the zoo community and for conservation education efforts. His presence helped educate millions of guests about the fascinating biology of lesser apes and the importance of protecting their forest habitats in Southeast Asia, which are under constant threat. The zoo's staff has expressed that his absence will be deeply felt.

What do you think?

• As our understanding of animal intelligence deepens, should zoos be required to provide grief counseling for staff and the public when a long-term resident passes away?


• Is the educational value of seeing live animals in zoos still justified, or have high-definition nature documentaries made them obsolete for conservation messaging?


• Should zoos with aging animal populations be considered sanctuaries first and tourist attractions second?


• If an animal is born in captivity, is it more ethical to care for it there its whole life or to attempt reintroduction to the wild, even with low success rates?