Singapore zoo is immersed in a festive atmosphere as officials and zoo keepers celebrated the sixth birthday of Ah Meng the orangutan on Wednesday. The birthday girl was born as Ishta, but last year she was renamed as Ah Meng in memory of her grandmother, an iconic mascot of the Singapore Zoo. The elder Ah Meng died in 2008 at the age of 48, the rough equivalent of 95 human years.
The younger Ah Meng was given a surprise party with a scrumptious carrot cake, studded with blueberries and topped with a healthy nut-based icing. The zoo authorities specially prepared the cake for Ah Meng. The Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) said in a statement that the healthy cake adhered to strict specifications from the zoo's animal nutritionist.
"The non-dairy and low-sugar confection made for a sweet yet healthy treat," WRS said. Besides the surprise treat, Ah Meng was visited by an excited crowd of visitors who serenaded her with the 'Happy Birthday' song along with Ah Meng's carers.
The birthday celebration was also streamed live online at WRS' Facebook page, allowing online fans to join the festivities. The video racked up over 7,566 views.
According to WRS, she is a mainstay and favourite among visitors during the zoo's dining programme and photography sessions. Younger Ah Meng bears a striking resemblance in both looks and mannerisms to its namesake.
