In loving memory of:
Jambu
1985-2026
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Jambu
1985-2026
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Orangutan SSP Husbandry Course 2026
Hosted by the Phoenix Zoo
August 24-27, 2026
What is the Husbandry course?
The purpose of the Orangutan SSP husbandry course is to bring together animal care professionals to effectively
manage orangutans in accredited zoos throughout the world, support continued development, training, and
give access to resources that enhance animal care, well-being, and management.
This support helps both animals and care staff by strengthening skills, deepening knowledge, improving welfare,
and building long-term expertise concerning these species by addressing physiological, biological, and social
needs of the animals under our care. Coursework will have a strong focus on orangutan natural history and how
it directly plays into every aspect of managed care from nutrition, veterinary care and habitat enhancements.
The time spent during the course allows zoo professionals from around the world to collaborate and transfer
knowledge about orangutan husbandry, science, well-being and conservation. Classes will be taught by experts
with orangutans in managed care with over 130 years of combined experience and will include hands-on
activities, tabletop drills, and discussions to include current cultures in the industry.
Hosted by the Phoenix Zoo
August 24-27, 2026
What is the Husbandry course?
The purpose of the Orangutan SSP husbandry course is to bring together animal care professionals to effectively
manage orangutans in accredited zoos throughout the world, support continued development, training, and
give access to resources that enhance animal care, well-being, and management.
This support helps both animals and care staff by strengthening skills, deepening knowledge, improving welfare,
and building long-term expertise concerning these species by addressing physiological, biological, and social
needs of the animals under our care. Coursework will have a strong focus on orangutan natural history and how
it directly plays into every aspect of managed care from nutrition, veterinary care and habitat enhancements.
The time spent during the course allows zoo professionals from around the world to collaborate and transfer
knowledge about orangutan husbandry, science, well-being and conservation. Classes will be taught by experts
with orangutans in managed care with over 130 years of combined experience and will include hands-on
activities, tabletop drills, and discussions to include current cultures in the industry.
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The Orangutan Species Survival Plan®
Formed in the 1980's, the Orangutan SSP is a group of dedicated professionals with five primary goals:
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Welfare of individuals, social groups and populations
Together with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Orangutan SSP serves the accredited zoos that house orangutans in the United States, Canada, Mexico and South Korea. Working closely with respected professionals in the field, the SSP provides help and guidance to zoos housing orangutans. Together, zoos and the SSP seek to provide the best possible environment for these amazing apes. 
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AZA members are committed to #orangutan conservation. Between 2019 and 2021, over $1.4 million was spent on orangutan #conservation focused on habitat restoration, rescue and rehabilitation, and education and outreach. #WeAreAZA #AZASAFE #SavingSpecies
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Orangutans in Zoos
Orangutans live in 50+ accredited zoos all across the United States, Canada, Mexico and South Korea. Find out where they are and more about their exhibits here. 
Photo by Max Block
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Resources
This website serves as a central forum for important information for members of the SSP. Click here to enter the Member’s section and find out the latest happenings for and about the Orangutan Species Survival Plan. 
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