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World Orangutan Day: 5 Fun Facts

August 16, 2024

Celebrate International Orangutan Day by learning more about these fascinating apes

Photo Credit: ©Chutternsap/Unsplash

1. Orangutans have sizable cheek pads called flanges

Flanges are large fleshy pads found on the faces of mature male orangutans. These pads can make the male's face appear wider and more imposing and are more pronounced in Bornean orangutans than in Sumatran orangutans. Flanges typically develop in male orangutans as they reach sexual maturity, around the age of 15

2. Orangutans build intricate, cozy nests in trees using branches and foliage

They create a new nest each night, often building them high up in the canopy to stay safe from predators. These nests can be quite complex, complete with cushioning from young leaves and moss.

3. Orangutan infants stay with their mothers for up to eight years

During this critical time, dependent orangutans learn essential survival skills like finding food and building nests.

4. Female orangutans have one of the longest interbirth intervals of any mammal

Orangutans give birth only about once every 5+ years. This slow reproductive rate makes population recovery challenging after significant declines.

5. Orangutans use a variety of vocalizations to communicate

Adult males are known for their "long calls," which can be heard over a mile away and are used to attract females and warn other males. The "kiss squeak," made by both genders, is in response to threats. Other calls include "grumphing" for mother-infant bonding, food calls to alert others of food sources, and distress "screams and whimpers" by juveniles.

The world’s remaining orangutans reside in Indonesia and Malaysia. Sadly, all orangutan species are Critically Endangered. But you can help: WCS is successfully supporting the government of Indonesia in reducing deforestation and expanding protected areas that they call home.

Donate to help protect these incredible apes today!

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