Bornean Orang-utan

Description - This "man of the forest" is the largest tree climbing mammal and the only Great Ape in existence in Asia. With long arms that may reach 2m in length, shaggy reddish-brown fur and grasping hands and feet the Orang-Utan swings slowly through the tree canopy with the help of immensely powerful arms and hands. When night approaches they make nests of vegetation to sleep in and occasionally smaller ones during the day to rest. Male Orang-Utans are evident by their large size (weigh up to 90kg whereas females weigh up to 50kg), their cheek pads and throat pouch. Generally anti-social apes, their primary social structure consists of solitary males and sub adults of both sexes and adult females with one or two juveniles. A male Orang-Utans range usually encompasses that of a variety of females although they are not territorial; adult males are generally hostile to each other. One infant is born approx every 6 years.

Distribution - This subspecies is only in existence on the island of Borneo. Principle areas are Sabah (Sepilok), Sarawak (Batang-Ai) and Kalimantan (Tanjung Putting).

Level of Protection - Endangered. It is expected that only 55,000 Bornean Orang-Utans remain in the wild. It is thought that up to 8,000 individuals lost their lives in the fires of 1997-98 and as a result of continual hunting, logging and habitat destruction the Bornean Orang-Utan continues to be under threat.

Best Time to visit - The traveller should visit during March - October. Being hot and humid for most of the year and in a rainforest climate, travellers should be prepared for rain throughout the year.

Safaris available - World Primate Safaris offers a variety of safaris throughout Borneo. Please contact us for further information.