The name orangutan means “man of the forest” in the Malay language.
- There are 3 species of orangutan…..
“Bornean and Sumatran orangutans differ a little in appearance and behavior. While both have shaggy reddish fur, Sumatran orangutans have longer facial hair. Sumatran orangutans are reported to have closer social bonds than their Bornean cousins. Bornean orangutans are more likely to descend from the trees to move around on the ground. Both species have experienced sharp population declines. A century ago there were probably more than 230,000 orangutans in total, but the Bornean orangutan is now estimated at about 104,700 based on updated geographic range (Endangered) and the Sumatran about 7,500 (Critically Endangered).
A third species of orangutan was announced in November, 2017. With no more than 800 individuals in existence, the Tapanuli orangutan is the most endangered of all great apes” (source: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/orangutan )
- Orangutans are the heaviest tree-dwelling animal.
- They don’t mind eating with their feet.
- They learn everything they need to know from the mother.
- Males are majestic.
- They build nests to sleep in.
- Some orangutans use tools.
(Source: https://www.wwf.org.uk/learn/fascinating-facts/orangutans )
*** World Orangutans Day is August 19th
