orangutan

Orangutan, meaning “person of the forest” in Malay, is a large arboreal primate native to the tropical forests of Sumatra and Borneo. The genus Pongo includes three extant species: the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), the Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii), and the Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis), described as a distinct species in 2017. They are among the most intelligent and solitary of the great apes outside of mother–offspring groups.

Physically, orangutans have long arms, a broad chest, and reddish-brown hair. They are highly arboreal, spending most of their time in trees and building sleeping nests at night. They are capable tool users, employing sticks to extract insects or honey and using leaves as umbrellas or cups. Their diet is omnivorous but fruit dominates; they also consume leaves, bark, and occasional small animals.

Social structure is relatively dispersed. Adult males and females interact mainly for mating, and offspring stay with their mothers for several years. Males can be flanged (with large cheek pads) or unflanged, with different maturation and signaling patterns. Orangutans have a long interbirth interval, typically seven to nine years, with a gestation of about eight months. Weaning and learning occur over extended periods, during which young orangutans acquire foraging techniques and social skills.

Conservation status varies by species. All orangutans are threatened by habitat loss due to logging, palm oil plantations, and forest fires, as well as hunting and illegal pet trade. The Tapanuli orangutan is classified as Critically Endangered, while the Bornean and Sumatran species are Endangered. Conservation efforts include protected habitats, anti-poaching measures, rehabilitation programs, and community-based conservation initiatives.