Orangutan | Species | WWF
Introduction
- Orangutans are the largest arboreal mammals known for their distinctive red fur.
- They share 96.4% of our genes and are highly intelligent.
- Orangutan means "man of the forest" in Malay.
Species Overview
- Status: Critically Endangered
- Population:
- Bornean: approx. 104,700
- Sumatran: approx. 13,846
- Tapanuli: approx. 800
- Scientific Name: Pongo abelii, Pongo pygmaeus
- Weight: Up to 200 pounds
- Orangutans are solitary and primarily arboreal.
Key Characteristics
- Long, powerful arms and grasping hands and feet.
- Flanged males have cheek pads and a throat sac used for long calls.
- Two main species: Bornean and Sumatran, with slight differences in behavior and appearance.
Importance
- Orangutans are key seed dispersers, playing a crucial role as "gardeners" of the forest.
- Their extremely low reproductive rate makes their populations vulnerable.
Threats
- Major threats include deforestation, habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, hunting, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Over 50% of orangutans live outside protected areas, making them vulnerable to habitat destruction.
WWF Conservation Efforts
- Active in orangutan conservation since the 1970s.
- Key activities:
- Protecting habitats
- Anti-poaching efforts
- Promoting sustainable forestry and agriculture
- Halting the pet trade
- Collaborating with TRAFFIC to monitor wildlife trade
- Rescuing trafficked orangutans
- Securing protected areas and wider forest landscapes
How You Can Help
- Adopt an Orangutan: Symbolic adoption supports conservation efforts.
- Take Action: Join WWF's Action Center to advocate for species and habitats.
Related Species
- Chimpanzee
- Black Spider Monkey
- Bonobo
- Gorilla
Additional Information
- WWF collaborates globally across nearly 100 countries.
- Orangutans and other wildlife conservation efforts are supported through various donation and adoption programs.
Resources and Media
These notes summarize key points about orangutans, their importance, threats they face, and WWF's conservation efforts and how individuals can help.