Orangutan Stories: Logos’ lucky rescue from the pet trade to thriving in the forest

Logos, January 2025, adjusting to his new surroundings whilst playing

Just like humans, orangutans in the soft-release programme receive regular health care, as routine check-ups ensure smooth journeys back into the wild. Logos’ results show that this once small and fragile infant rescued from illegal pet trafficking is now flourishing!

Logos, February 2025

Logos arrived at the Foundation in 2023, weighing just 7.2kg, after being confiscated in Java on his way to becoming a pet. As orangutan infants are extremely dependent on their mother, orphaned Logos was very vulnerable. He has since overcome all odds, doubling in size to over 16kg and already showing confidence in climbing, foraging, and nest-building.

Logos, 2023, arriving at the Foundation after being rescued from Java

Recently, Logos was relocated to Camp Rasak to replace Boy, who in November was released into his independent life in the wild. Logos immediately sparked a lot of interest, with many resident orangutans curious to see the newcomer, hanging around his enclosure where Logos was playing with the enrichment sources provided.

However, when Logos was brought out of his enclosure to start exploring the forest, the wild, resident orangutans accosted him, causing him to run to the safety of his carer. As the other individuals have become more familiar with Logos, his confidence has improved and he now is brave enough to explore even the tallest of trees and to attempt nest-building.

Logos, February 2025

All individuals in the soft-release programme have been rescued from the pet-trade; it is reassuring to see how quickly they become the young orangutan in the forest that they were always meant to be.