Remembering Nonong
2002 - 2020
Nonong's Story
Nonong was brought to Sepilok in 2003 by a plantation worker who found her orphaned at one year old. After a quarantine period, she was introduced to the other orangutans at the indoor nursery. She thrived, especially on the jungle gym, and the team were pleased with her progress. It seemed she was well on her way to an independent life in the wild.
At four years old, Nonong contracted cerebral malaria, a serious neurological complication of malaria. This devastating illness left her partially paralysed in her left arm and prone to seizures. Once her carers realised that she would never live independently in the rainforest again, her long-term comfort and happiness at Sepilok was a priority. We were so pleased to fund a brand-new enclosure just for her in September 2014.
2002-2020
Nonong's story
Nonong was brought to Sepilok in 2003 by a plantation worker who found her orphaned at one year old. After a quarantine period, she was introduced to the other orangutans at the indoor nursery. She thrived, especially on the jungle gym, and the team were pleased with her progress. It seemed she was well on her way to an independent life in the wild.
At four years old, Nonong contracted cerebral malaria, a serious neurological complication of malaria. This devastating illness left her partially paralysed in her left arm and prone to seizures. Once her carers realised that she would never live independently in the rainforest again, her long-term comfort and happiness at Sepilok was a priority. We were so pleased to fund a brand-new enclosure just for her in September 2014.
In the years that followed, Nonong enjoyed her new home, especially with the addition of a garden that helped to enrich her space. Described as beautiful and playful by her carers, she loved nothing better than relaxing in her hammock. Occasionally, she would encourage other orangutans from the reserve in, but on the whole she was content with her own company.
On the 9th March 2020, Nonong, aged 18 years, sadly died. It was an extremely difficult time for the Sepilok staff who cared for her daily to the end. It is comforting to know that they were able to provide her with 14 years of safety and care at Sepilok following her tragic illness.
"Nonong will always be remembered for her resilience and the joy she brought to those who knew and met her."
In the years that followed, Nonong enjoyed her new home, especially with the addition of a garden that helped to enrich her space. Described as beautiful and playful by her carers, she loved nothing better than relaxing in her hammock. Occasionally, she would encourage other orangutans from the reserve in, but on the whole she was content with her own company.
On the 9th March 2020, Nonong, aged 18 years, sadly died. It was an extremely difficult time for the Sepilok staff who cared for her daily to the end. It is comforting to know that they were able to provide her with 14 years of safety and care at Sepilok following her tragic illness.
"Nonong will always be remembered for her resilience and the joy she brought to those who knew and met her."
