A new orangutan has moved in to Dublin Zoo.
34-year-old Miri has moved from a zoo in Germany and is now living in the Orangutan Rainforest.
Dublin Zoo says her arrival is the first step in rebuilding the orangutan group, following the passing of Sibu and Leonie in 2024 and 2025 respectively, after 40 years.
Dublin Zoo says: "Dublin Zoo is delighted to officially announce the arrival of Miri, a female adult Bornean orangutan. Miri, who is 34 years old, arrived from Duisburg Zoo in July and has been settling in extremely well, developing a friendship with 20‑year‑old Mujur, the other female Bornean orangutan in Dublin Zoo’s Orangutan Rainforest.
"Visitors have been getting their first glimpses of Miri over the past few weeks, with her favourite spot to relax being at the very top of a tree in the habitat.
"Her arrival is the first step in rebuilding the much‑loved orangutan group at Dublin Zoo, following the passing of the Zoo’s beloved orangutan pair Sibu and Leonie in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
"Sibu and Leonie had been inseparable companions for over 40 years, and their loss has been keenly felt by the Zoo’s staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Legacy
"To ensure their legacy lives on, Dublin Zoo commissioned Wexford‑based artist James Kirwan to paint a mural commemorating Sibu and Leonie. The mural, which took four days to complete, is located just opposite the Orangutan Rainforest and is sure to spark fond memories for visitors who grew to love them over the decades. It depicts Sibu and Leonie at their most content – side by side."
Ciarán McMahon, Team Leader at Dublin Zoo, says: "Welcoming Miri to Dublin Zoo is a truly special moment. We hope she will play a central role in shaping our new Bornean orangutan family, even as we remember Sibu and Leonie – the iconic pair who were at the heart of our orangutan group for more than 40 years.
"Since her arrival, Miri has settled in wonderfully and is already forming a close bond with Mujur. She’s an impressive character with a strong personality, and we’re excited for visitors to meet her and see her shine in the weeks and months ahead."
