ORANGUTANPongo pygmaeusMammalOrder PrimataDescription 3.5 - 4.4 feet tall, 90-200 pounds, males larger. Sparse, long, red hair varies in shade from bright orange (young) to maroon and brown (adults). Face hairless and black, but lighter on muzzle and around eyes in young. Sumatran subspecies has a thinner, longer face, longer hair and paler color than Borneo subspecies. Adult males have cheek flanges of fibrous tissue (especially Bornean), and enlarged throat pouch and very long hair. Long arms with hook-shaped hands and feet. Hybrids exist in zoos. Range Northern Sumatra and most of lowland Borneo. This species is listed as endangered and commercial trade of this species is prohibited by international law. Decreasing numbers are due to logging of the tropical rainforest. A number of reserves exist in both Sumatra and Borneo as a short-term effort to preserve the species. Long-term efforts must concern rational management of rainforests. Lincoln Park Zoo is a member of the Siberian tiger Species Survival Plan. Photo © James P. Rowan |
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