Tango was born at a breeder compound in Miami, pulled away from her mother, and sold as a tiny infant to a Hollywood trainer for the movies, television, and commercial business. She has performed in several movies (including Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back) and worked in various commercials. In fact, it is assumed that her name came from her use in many of the Tang® commercials where her image is still used on some of their packaging.

Like most young apes, Tango was unable to be used in entertainment and commercials once she turned 7 years old. Her “shelf life” as a working orangutan had expired. So, Tango was outplaced from show business and was shipped to our Wauchula sanctuary in August 2004.

Tango often plays by herself, even though she has been introduced and housed at the sanctuary with Mari, Christopher, Pebbles, Louie, BamBam, Geri, and Sammy. By far, her favorite companion is little Jam. She is very protective and playful with Jam… reassuring him if he is frightened and often sharing food with him.

Tango frequently will hide under large buckets and tubs used for enrichment. She loves water play and will suds herself up if given bubbles in a bath. At Christmas, when all the apes receive gift-wrapped enrichment items and treats, Tango is quick to gather up as many presents as she can carry, then sit on the pile and carefully open each one.

She likes to eat all types of produce but her least favorite food is onions… so she usually gives her lunchtime onion to Jam. Tango originated from the same breeder as many of the other orangutans here and is Christopher’s younger sister.

(Note: Even though Tango was used to sell Tang® and other products such as Budweiser®, none of these companies have ever contributed to her retirement or long term care at the sanctuary.)