Orangutan born at the Smithsonian's National Zoo

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is celebrating the birth of a male Bornean orangutan.

He was born at 8:52 p.m. on Sept. 12.

The newborn has been under observation while nursing and has been clinging to his mother, Batang, according to a statement from the Smithsonian's National Zoo. 

The animal care team is cautiously optimistic that the newborn will thrive, according to the zoo.

Meredith Bastian, curator of primates and member of the Orangutan SSP Steering Committee, said in a statement that the team has worked tirelessly to prepare Batang for motherhood.

"I look forward to watching the infant experience everything for the first time—especially meeting the other orangutans and going outside for the first time with Batang,” Bastian said.

Throughout Batang's pregnancy, the Zoo has provided weekly updates on social media using the #OrangutanStory hashtag.

The Great Ape House will remain closed to provide Batang a quiet space to bond with her infant.