Orangutan Awareness Week at the National Zoo

November 10-16, 2008 is Orangutan Awareness Week at the National Zoo. One of our closest relatives and Asia's only great ape, orangutans are threatened with extinction. Throughout the week, you'll have the opportunity to learn about issues facing orangutans, such as deforestation, poaching, palm oil plantations, orangutans in entertainment, and the pet trade. On November 15 and 16, they'll have special demos about orangutan cognition research and lots of activities for kids. If you wear orange for orangutans, you'll be eligible to win a one-of-a-kind orangutan painting.

Photo Description: Both the keepers and the animals at the National Zoo's Great Ape House made the most of a pre-game tailgate party in honor of last week's Washington Redskins vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Monday Night Football game. The orangutans participated in the fun with enrichment goodies like fries (cut baked potatoes), Redskins/Steelers banners (sheets they like to cover themselves with) and life-like quarterbacks made of straw (bedding).

© Jessie Cohen, National Zoo

Photos of Animals at the National Zoo

Animals along the Asia Trail

Tiger Cubs

Lions