Orangutans – The Rainforest’s Gardeners

The name “orangutan” is originally from the Malay and Indonesian word, “orang,” which means “person,” and “hutan,” that translates as “forest.” So, the name orangutan translates to “person of the forest.” We are considered closely related to humans, as we share 97% of human DNA. We are also considered a Great Ape, along with gorillas and chimpanzees. An orangutan’s lifespan is around 40 to 45 years in the wild. Orangutans are one of the most intelligent primates in the world, ranking even above chimpanzees and gorillas. Orangutans are well known as the “gardeners of the forests” as we help to shape and preserve the lush rainforest areas of Borneo and Sumatra. Being the largest arboreal animal, our fruit-eating diet and how we travel through the greenery makes us excellent seed dispersers. Sadly, orangutan populations are quickly diminishing. The main reason for this is oil palm tree cultivation! Our land is being rapidly cleared for oil palm tree plantations. Changing temperatures, wildfires, and rain are altering the areas where we search for food. Climate change also plays a large role in the destruction of the orangutan habitat.