The Audubon Zoo is mourning the “sudden” death of 36-year-old orangutan Feliz, who was a fixture at the zoo for decades and the matriarch of the orangutan family, officials announced Monday.
According to Audubon, Feliz died late Friday after a brief illness. Veterinarians are awaiting pathology results to determine the cause of death, but a spokesperson said contagion is not suspected.
Feliz came to New Orleans in 1989 from the Gladly Proter Zoo in Texas and has been with Audubon ever since.
The orangutan loved to turn sheets and blankets into clothing, such as jackets and dresses, which he wore in his habitat, his care team said in a news release. Feliz was known by guests and staff for her impressive dance moves and unique whistle, which she often used to attract a little extra attention.
She enjoyed painting and was an attentive and caring mother and grandmother, Audubon officials said, often serving as a role model and mentor to the new orangutan mothers.
“Feliz will be remembered for her perfect bangs, her fluffy apricot chin and her all-around perfect personality,” said Liz Wilson, Audubon’s curator of primates. “She will always have a place in our hearts.”
Feliz leaves behind her children, 15-year-old Menari and 5-year-old Bulan, and a grandchild, 2-year-old Roux, all born at Audubon Zoo. Audubon said its primate care team is closely monitoring the orangutan family and helping them through the grieving process.
