Three orangutan species exist in the world

Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) have a robust build and broad face, distinguishing them from their Sumatran and Tapanuli counterparts. These adaptations emerged to help them avoid predators and survive on different food sources. Bornean orangutans spend more time on the ground and have heavier bodies than other species.

Orangutans spend their lives in trees

As the largest tree-dwelling mammals on Earth, orangutans have mastered the trees. They move between branches to find food, shelter, and safety.

Orangutans are semi-solitary apes

Compared to other great apes like gorillas and chimps, orangutans prefer to live alone. For example, adult males mostly isolate themselves; they only interact with females during mating. Though they might cross paths with other orangutans from time to time, they don't last long. However, these apes, particularly mothers and their young, can still be social when needed.

Orangutans give birth to 1 baby every 8 to 9 years

Female orangutans usually give birth to just one offspring every 8-9 years. After delivery, orangutan infants undergo a protracted dependency period3.

Orangutans can solve complex problems

Thanks to observation and imitation, orangutans learn to use sticks to extract insects from tree bark. They poke and prod at the bark to remove the insects while avoiding injury

Orangutans are the gardeners of the rainforest

Thanks to their appetite for fruit, orangutans have built a symbiotic relationship with fruit trees. While feeding, they disperse seeds throughout the forest.

Orangutans are critically endangered species

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List has placed all three orangutan species on the endangered species list. Today, the decline in their populations poses a clear danger to countless other species sharing their habitat.