Orangutan Foundation

It is not often that the Foundation broadcasts our achievements about individual orangutans but this story is so heart-warming that we felt the need to share it. We are delighted to bring you the tale of a happy ending for orphaned orangutan Brian.

In August 2009 Brian was rescued from an oil-palm plantation. He had no mother and was far too young for independent release and so adoption was our only option to ensure a quick release back into the forest. Adoption is always a gamble but risk can be reduced by careful selection of a surrogate mother. Under the guidance of our retained vet in the Lamandau River Wildlife Reserve, Dr Fikri, Brian was placed in a cage with young female orangutan Rosa.

Brian and Rosa quickly formed a bond.

Interactions between Brian and Rosa were observed closely from the offset and early signs seemed positive. They were. As time progressed we tested their relationship through interference with shows of affection or heckling towards Brian or Rosa . The two had clearly bonded and showed strong protection towards each other. In mid-December Dr Fikri decided that the pair was ready for release and they were taken to Camp Siswoyo in the Reserve.  After little hesitation Brian and Rosa moved up into the trees to resume a future in the wild. They continue to be monitored and thrive in their new environment.

Back where they belong in the wild.