Orang utan dies after dental surgery

MIAMI: An orang utan has died at Zoo Miami following a dental surgery, officials said.

Kumang (pic), a 44-year-old Bornean orang utan, died on Thursday during recovery from anaesthesia, according to a statement from the South Florida zoo on Friday.

“We at Zoo Miami are heartbroken over this terrible loss and our deepest condolences go out to the staff that provided Kumang with such great care over the years,” the statement said.

The great ape had been anaesthetised for the removal of two teeth, which were damaged and causing an infection in her gums, official’s said.

The anaesthesia, examination and dental surgery went as planned.

Kumang was closely monitored by veterinarians, veterinary technicians and a human cardiologist.

After the procedure, Kumang was returned to her enclosure, where she began to recover.

Zoo workers said she was able to sit up and climb to her platform bed.

But then for unknown reasons, she lied down and stopped breathing, officials said.

Kumang leaves behind an eightyear-old daughter named Bella, which continues to reside at Zoo Miami.