Severe forest fires on the Indonesian islands of Borneo and Sumatra have destroyed the homes of countless living beings, but recent efforts have yielded positive results with the rescue and release of nine orangutans. These animals had been confined in narrow wooden crates for weeks while they were nursed back to health before being transported to the protected forest area of Batu Nyambu in West Borneo.
The journey to their new home involved a challenging trek through impassable terrain on pickup trucks, followed by a boat ride up a river deeper into the Bornean jungle. The entire operation was conducted under the strict supervision of veterinarian Ishma Maula, who noted that the animals were extremely stressed during their quarantine period. Consequently, the team prioritized releasing them back into the forest as quickly as possible.
Each crate was labeled with a profile and photo to identify which orangutan was inside. The fires that destroyed their previous homes are suspected to have been caused by deforestation, with companies accused of clearing land to speculate on future plantations. Karmele Llano Sánchez from the organization Yiari, who organized the rescue, reported that the animals suffered burns on their hands and feet and were severely undernourished. However, she confirmed that they are now fit for release.
Upon reaching the destination, where the forest remained untouched by fire with large tree trunks rising high, the team prepared for the release. Sánchez revealed a joyful discovery made during the final medical checkup: three of the orangutans are pregnant. One of them, nicknamed Mama Ocha, could give birth very soon, prompting part of the team to remain nearby even after the release to monitor her.
In the final moment, helpers opened the first crate, and an agile female orangutan swung up a tree, gripping the trunk before disappearing into the dense greenery. Some of the helpers clapped softly to bid farewell as the animals returned to nature.
Sources: Tagesschau.