Taronga Western Plains Zoo is celebrating the return of an iconic species, with a young female Siamang Ape named Kasarna now calling Dubbo home.

Kasarna moved to the Central West in March from the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, and after completing a quarantine period she is now out on the Siamang Islands for zoo guests to see.

Keeper Amy Sturrock said the six-year-old could often be seen “swinging and rolling around her islands” and using her long arms to “skip” along the ground.

“Kasarna is very charismatic and a lot of fun to both watch and work with,” Amy said.

“She has been really confident in exploring her new surroundings, shows genuine curiosity, is quick to pick up on training and very resilient – she has taken the change of scenery in her stride.

“She’s super popular already, definitely a favourite. As soon as people see her rolling or skipping, their eyes light up. It's so nice to see that our guests are as excited as we are about the return of Siamangs to Taronga Western Plains Zoo.”

Kasarna was born to parents Tunku and Cian in April 2019 but has lived on her own since reaching maturity. In the wild, young Siamangs spend some time alone before finding a mate.

Siamangs are best known for their vocalisations, with bonded pairs performing elaborate duets. However, they are much quieter when solitary, with Kasarna calling only occasionally to mark her territory.

It is hoped that Kasarna will be joined by a male soon, but in the meantime, she has wasted no time making herself at home, exploring her new habitat and winning the hearts of all who see her.

Kasarna’s arrival marks the return of an iconic species to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, after long-time residents Saudara and Puteri passed away in 2023.

“While we were heartbroken to say goodbye to our elderly pair a couple of years ago, it's beautiful to be able to witness the beginning of a new chapter for this species at Taronga Western Plains Zoo,” Amy said.

“Kasarna will likely call these islands home for at least the next 30 years, just as her predecessors did. When joined by her future mate, they will establish their unique duet that we will be able to hear not just across the zoo but in Dubbo as well.”

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