Uploaded June 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 days ago
This adult male orangutan had been seen near local homes, drawn in by fruit trees and changes to his surroundings. With his presence becoming more frequent, the decision was made to move him as soon as possible - for his wellbeing, and to ensure he had the space he needed to thrive.
Thanks to quick coordination by the dedicated teams at the Ministry of Forestry, assisted by our partners YIARI and the team from KPH Ketapang Selatan, he has now been safely translocated to the protected Gunung Tarak Forest.
It wasn’t easy. The team began before dawn, using a carefully measured anaesthetic to keep him safe. Even after years of experience, it is never simple. Once sedated, a full health check revealed an old wound and some dental issues, but he was still strong enough to return to the wild.
Seven hours later, deep in the heart of the forest, his crate was opened and off he went. No hesitation. No looking back. Just the sound of leaves rustling as he disappeared into the trees.
Now, in a forest with plenty of food and space, and far from roads and danger, he gets a second chance at freedom.
We’re so grateful to the Ministry of Forestry, our partners YIARI, KPH Ketapang Selatan, and the local communities who all played a role in making this possible.
And of course, to YOU - the supporters and donors of this project - thank you. It’s your compassion that brings orangutans like him back to the wild.
This adult male orangutan had been seen near local homes, drawn in by fruit trees and changes to his surroundings. With his presence becoming more frequent, the decision was made to move him as soon as possible - for his wellbeing, and to ensure he had the space he needed to thrive.
Thanks to quick coordination by the dedicated teams at the Ministry of Forestry, assisted by our partners YIARI and the team from KPH Ketapang Selatan, he has now been safely translocated to the protected Gunung Tarak Forest.
It wasn’t easy. The team began before dawn, using a carefully measured anaesthetic to keep him safe. Even after years of experience, it is never simple. Once sedated, a full health check revealed an old wound and some dental issues, but he was still strong enough to return to the wild.
Seven hours later, deep in the heart of the forest, his crate was opened and off he went. No hesitation. No looking back. Just the sound of leaves rustling as he disappeared into the trees.
Now, in a forest with plenty of food and space, and far from roads and danger, he gets a second chance at freedom.
We’re so grateful to the Ministry of Forestry, our partners YIARI, KPH Ketapang Selatan, and the local communities who all played a role in making this possible.
And of course, to YOU - the supporters and donors of this project - thank you. It’s your compassion that brings orangutans like him back to the wild.
