sharing space ... #3

This female Orangutan was sitting alone by a small waterfall, holding a piece of burlap over her head to keep off some of the spray. The young Orangutan came up to her, and she welcomed him under the burlap and they embraced. Within a few moments, the youngster had moved the burlap entirely over his head. The adult was fine with this--she seemed mainly focused on holding the arm and hand of the youngster, and caressing him. They sat quietly together, enjoying each others presence.

The word 'Orangutan' means 'person of the forest'. They are among the most intelligent of primates, and can live for over 30 years. The Orangutans are endangered, and are currently found only in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. They are the most arboreal of the great apes, and spend most of their time in trees. Their diet consist mainly of fruit, but also vegetation, bark, honey, insects and even bird eggs. Threats to them include poaching, destruction of habitat, and illegal pet trade.

Lowry Park Zoo

Tampa, Florida, USA

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