Orangutan granted 'personhood' turns 34, makes new friend

[Judi Lynn]

By ASSOCIATED PRESS

PUBLISHED: 01:24 EST, 16 February 2020 | UPDATED: 01:38 EST, 16 February 2020

WAUCHULA, Fla. (AP) - A orangutan named Sandra, who was granted legal personhood by a judge in Argentina and later found a new home in Florida, celebrated her 34th birthday on Valentine's Day with a special new primate friend.

Patti Ragan, director of the Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida, says Sandra "has adjusted beautifully to her life at the sanctuary" and has befriended Jethro, a 31-year-old male orangutan.

Prior to coming to Florida, Sandra had lived alone in a Buenos Aires zoo. Sandra was a bit shy when she arrived at the Florida center, which is home to 22 orangutans.

"Sandra appeared most interested in Jethro, and our caregivers felt he was a perfect choice because of his close age, calm demeanor, and gentle nature," Ragan said in a news release. "Sandra still observes and follows Jethro from a distance while they are in the process of getting to know and trust each other. But they are living harmoniously in the same habitat spaces as they continue to gain confidence in their relationship."

More:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-8009245/Orangutan-granted-personhood-turns-34-makes-new-friend.html

Very best wishes to Sandra and her new friend.

[dewsgirl]

1. How very sweet.❤