Orangutan
Pongo pygmaeus
- Where
- Indonesian & Malaysian islands (Borneo, Sumatra)
- Habitat
- Tropical rainforests and cloud forests
- Diet
- Fruits, leaves, bark—mainly fruit!
- Size
- 4-5 feet tall; 70-200 pounds
- Lifespan
- 30-40 years in wild (up to 50 captive)
- Conservation
- Critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.
Fun Facts
- Orangutan means 'person of the forest' in Malay.
- They have no tail, but their arms are super long!
- They use tools—like sticks—to dig and eat.
Learn More
Thick reddish-brown fur helps them blend in.
Strong arms and hands for climbing trees.
Powerful jaws crush tough fruit pits.