Josephine, Queen of San Diego Zoo, Dies at 47
In Loving Memory of Josephine
Born in Sumatra Circa 1960
Died in San Diego January 17, 2008
Rest in Peace, Sweet Lady
From the San Diego Zoo’s website:
We regret to announce that 47-year-old Sumatran orangutan Josephine, who lived at the San Diego Zoo for 14 years, died January 17. Josephine was diagnosed with heart disease and had been under veterinary care and management to treat her condition for several years. In January 2007 she underwent a procedure to drain fluid accumulation from around her heart. Although the procedure provided her immediate relief from pain and increased her quality of life, it only extended her life for a short time. Since then, despite drug treatments, the heart fluid had returned on a few occasions and she had difficulty recovering from the procedures that prolonged her life. Her condition had continued to deteriorate despite these measures. On January 17, Josephine went to the veterinary hospital to have her condition evaluated. Due to her age and advancing health issues the animal care staff made the difficult decision to euthanize her.
Josephine was one of the oldest orangutans living in the U.S. She was Satu’s mother and Cinta’s grandmother. She was well loved by staff and Zoo visitors alike. She will be sorely missed. Please take a moment to share your sympathy with animal care staff who have cared for her over these many years.
Visit the San Diego Zoo’s website and check out the Ape Cam:
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/zoo/ex_absolutely_apes.html
January 26th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
It is so sad to hear of her death. They are all distinct individuals and to hear of an orangutan passing always makes me think of all the lives they touched throughout the years. May she rest in peace.
April 11th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
to Richard i wanted to ask you if you have been behind the scenes with the orangs in san diego including Cinta, Clyde, Josephine, Janey, satu, Indah, and Karen email me back Max