World Life Library: Orangutans

Orangutans are one of mankind s closest relatives even their name translates from the Malay words meaning People of the Forest . They have a special reputation for patience and persistence, and are notoriously clever when faced with a challenge. Orangutans are the world's largest tree-living mammal, and spend most of their time high in the rain forest canopies of Sumatra and Borneo. However, the days of the wild orangutans are numbered. Logging, agriculture and hunting pose critical threats to their survival. At the current rate of habitat destruction, wild orangutans could be lost within one generation, which would make them the first great ape to become extinct in recorded history. Orangutans are sentient individuals who deserve far better treatment than our species currently provides for them. Urgent action is required to ensure they continue to survive.