Orangs On the OTS
Details This photo shows the orangs on the new Orang utan Transportation System, after the first set of cables that would eventually connect the Great Ape House to the Think Tank were attached. This picture, from December 1994, shows the first two orangs to venture out onto the system, Bonnie and her son Kiko. To learn more visit the Think Tank exhibit.
Species Orang utan - Pongo Pygmaeus
Range Remote areas of two Indonesian islands, Sumatra and Borneo.
Habitat Undisturbed rain forests to 1524 m. (5,000 ft.).
Social Structure Most solitary of higher primates. Adult males usually live alone; adult females may live with 1 to 3 young who remain with their mother for 6 to 7 years.
Behavior Tree dwelling. During the day they travel in search of seasonally fruiting trees. Build nests in trees where they sleep at night.
Voice About 16 different vocalizations.
Diet Prefer fruit; also eat leaves, bark, vines, & insects.
Size Males, up to 1.3 m. (4.5 ft.), 73 kg. (160 lb.)
Lifespan 59 years in zoos.
Status Endangered