Hello, everyone. My name is Sheila, and I am an orangutan living the good life with my offspring Silva near Camp Gemini, Lamandau Wildlife Reserve.
Sheila (left) and Silva (right)
You might have heard that orangutans and humans share about 97% of the same DNA. This little-known fact is probably why our staff find me so troublesome. The camp staff here call me "naughty," but I prefer to think of myself as an innovative problem-solver. After all, we humans and orangutans both have a knack for using tools to get what we want, right?
Right now, my days are mostly focused on my son, Silva. He sticks to me like the ripest jungle fruit, though I do let him climb and explore on his own now and then. He’s a tiny adventurer, peeling tree bark and sampling the newest leaves, whilst I enjoy a precious moment of ‘me-time’ nearby.
Sheila and Silva navigating the canopies
But Camp Gemini knows me best for my favourite hobby: causing a little chaos. And my absolute favourite way to cause chaos? Stealing the longboat.
The longboats are the small canoes used by staff for river transport; the Reserve is only accessible by boat due to the density of the forest. I don't just ‘borrow’ these boats - I orchestrate the perfect heist. I’ve done it so many times that I've lost count, and even though I know the staff will complain, the thrill is always worth it.
Sheila and Silva with boat
This morning, a reddish, golden glow was just stretching across the sky, as Silva and I arose from the comfy nest I built last night. The river was a cool blanket of mist, and the only sound was the beautiful, haunting call of the gibbons. My stomach, however, was roaring louder than any jungle sound - it was time for a breakfast adventure!
From my branch, I spotted several camp canoes tied securely to the bridge, swaying gently in the river current. A brilliant, mischievous idea sparked in my mind: why not borrow one for a quick crossing? I’d just take it to the other side… no need to paddle all the way to the city!
Sheila and Silva with boat
With Silva clinging on tight, I crept sneakily down to the riverbank, glancing left and right - the camp was still quiet. I’d watched the staff do this countless times, so I knew exactly what to do. Carefully, slowly, I began to untie the ropes. My nimble fingers worked the knot loose, a skill I perfected simply by observing my human neighbours.
As the canoe drifted free, the river's small waves were on my side. I reached out and grabbed some thick Rasau plant growing along the bank, using it as a natural rope to pull and guide the vessel across the water. With my effort and the current's help, we quickly reached the far side.
The river in Lamandau Wildlife Reserve
I hopped out, feeling the damp earth beneath my feet. I didn't bother securing the boat; I knew the staff would come and get it once they realized it was missing.
"Come on, Silva!" I chuffed, heading into the forest with boundless energy. I couldn't wait to find a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit and dewy leaves. Who knows, maybe we’d even find a few tasty ants or termites.
Sheila and Silva
And the canoe? I didn't think about it again. My brain was already focused on the next big reward: a perfect meal and a great story to tell.
