PUMPKIN IS OFFICIALLY PART OF THE FAMILY

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens is excited to share that its newest François langur infant now has a name Pumpkin! Born on Sunday, September 8, to parents Pam and Ripley in the Zoo’s Sanctuary Asia habitat, the bright orange baby has captured the hearts of animal care teams and guests alike.

Pumpkin’s name was chosen to celebrate both the infant’s striking orange fur and the season of his birth. Arriving in the weeks leading up to Halloween, the little langur’s vibrant coloring reminded Zoo staff of autumn’s most iconic symbol.

“Pumpkin is the perfect name for this special infant,” said OKC Zoo Executive Director and CEO Dwight Lawson. “Not only does it honor his vivid orange coat, but it also reflects the joy and spirit of the season. We’re thrilled to introduce him to our community as Pumpkin.”

Pumpkin is the second offspring for Pam and Ripley. Their first, Fera, born in early 2024, is adjusting well to her new role as big sister. The family group has been bonding wonderfully, spending time together in their outdoor habitat where guests can watch the youngsters grow and play.

François langurs, found in forests of China and Vietnam, are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with fewer than 2,100 individuals remaining in the wild. Every birth is an important step for the survival of this rare species.

Adult François langurs are known for their sleek black fur and distinctive white cheek stripes, while infants are born with striking orange coats that gradually darken during their first year of life. Pumpkin, now thriving under the attentive care of his mother and the Zoo’s primate team, will undergo this transformation in the months to come.

“We love seeing guests’ excitement when they spot Pumpkin clinging to Pam or exploring near Fera,” said OKC Zoo’s Curator of Primates, Shannon Charles-Ray. “Naming him makes the connection even stronger, and we hope it inspires more people to learn about and support conservation for François langurs.”

Guests can visit Pumpkin and his family daily at the Zoo’s Sanctuary Asia habitat. The Oklahoma City Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last entry at 4 p.m. Advance tickets are available at okczoo.org/tickets.

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