Milo, the 13-year-old female orangutan rescued from Phuket Zoo earlier this year, passed away last night, Wildlife officers confirmed.
Milo died from a stroke at 8pm last night following health complications due to her long-term poor nutrition and old age, according to Banpot Maleehaun, chief of Ratchaburi’s Khao Prathap Chang Wildlife in Sanctuary where she was scheduled to move later this month.
Milo was being cared for at the Phang Nga Wildlife Nursery Station when her health suddenly deteriorated.
“I am sorry and feel sad for the life she was forced to live. We did the best we can. Now, I am waiting for veterinarians to perform an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death,” Banpot said.
Milo was found amid forest in Thalang, central Phuket, in February after she disappeared from Phuket Zoo, where she was held for two years and allegedly dumped in the forest following the officials’ investigation whether the zoo had the legal right to keep Milo.
Vicki Kiely, who launched an online campaign that spurred officials to finally take action over Milo’s incarceration at the zoo, was devastated by the news, the Phuket News reported.
“I am utterly devastated and empty. I know she was suffering greatly, and obviously gave up her long battle with her stroke last night,” Vicki wrote.
“She was my friend and brought a great joy to both my life and my children, even in her dark days as prisoner in the zoo. We struck a bond that I will never forget, and her spirit and personality will be with me forever.”
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