The Henry Vilas Zoo is mourning the passing of long-time family favorite, BB the Orangutan, who passed away in her sleep earlier this week at 40 years old.
After a preliminary examination, officials stated the cause of death was due to advanced age, respiratory infection and possible underlying cardiac disease.
"This is a difficult time for the staff who cared for BB," Interim Zoo Director Ronda Schwetz said in a statement. "BB has been at Henry Vilas Zoo for many years and had delighted guests with her interactions."
BB was considered geriatric for an orangutan and was under close care from the zoo veterinarian, UW veterinary staff and zoo staff.
BB was mother to Kawan, one of two orangutans remaining on display at the zoo.
"We hope that visitors will continue to come and see our other orangutans as often as they visited BB," Schwetz said in a statement.
