NORFOLK-- You can help name one of the Virginia Zoo's newest additions.
The male siamang was born in November to mother Hitam and father Bali. The healthy and active baby joins big sister Lola, who was born in 2012.
"The siamang family is fun to watch and Bali and Hitam are doing an excellent job caring for their growing family," says Dr. Amanda Guthrie, the Virginia Zoo veterinarian. "The family is very healthy; the baby is growing well and Hitam is doing everything a new mom should."
"These animals are critically endangered in the wild, this is a significant birth for us," said Greg Bockheim, the Zoo's executive director. "By involving our community in this naming process, we hope to raise greater awareness about the challenges siamangs face in the wild."
To vote, go to the Virginia Zoo Website. Choose from the names provided by zookeepers and staff. Online voting will take place through February 16. The winning name will be announced on Wednesday, February 18, 2015.
The whole family can be seen on exhibit in their indoor playroom in Asia – Trail of the Tiger.
About Siamangs
Siamangs are native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia and are the largest species of gibbon. Like their larger orangutan cousins, their survival in the wild is under serious threat from habitat loss due to plantation expansion – particularly palm oil plantations – forest fires, illegal logging and encroachment by human development.
"One of the best things people can do to help siamangs in the wild is to purchase products that are made from sustainably farmed palm oil. Visit the zoo's website to find a listing of these products," said Bockheim.
