Orangutans at the Oregon Zoo are getting a swinging new home.

The Red Ape reserve is opening later this year and now zoo officials are asking for the public’s help to raise money for “sway poles,” in a structure that simulates trees for the apes to swing from in the wild.

"Red Ape Reserve will provide the orangs with climbing structures and several enrichment areas, which should increase their activity level," primate keeper Dave Thomas said. "It will also increase their exhibit space by more than three and a half times."

KGW

The new center will allow people to see the apes in action as they swing overhead.

The auction and Indonesian-style dinner is March 16 in the zoo's Cascade Crest Banquet Center. Tickets are $25 and need to be purchased by March 10.

Up for bid are a two-night stay at the Hallmark Inn in Newport with a Marine Discovery boat excursion; a two-night stay at a two-bedroom cottage in Cannon Beach; a Powered Parachute lesson and flight; and a scenic airplane ride around Portland.

There’s also a raffle for more prizes.

To purchase tickets, or for further information Click here