Tapanuli Orangutans and Sumatran Floods: What We Know

Photo credit: Andrew Walmsley

The floods in Sumatra have had a catastrophic impact on human lives. We are now confronting the tragic impact the floods may have had on wildlife, including the critically endangered Tapanuli orangutan.

The Tapanuli orangutan is the world’s rarest ape with around 800 individuals left. This compares drastically to the population estimates for Bornean and Sumatran orangutans. 

Tapanuli orangutans are restricted to a single, vulnerable area of forest, the Batang Toru ecosystem. This area was one of the hardest hit in the recent floods. When a species has fewer than 800 individuals remaining, every single life counts

So what do we know?

Our frontline partners are back in the field and there have been several sightings of orangutans in recent days. We still see new nests when entering the forest, a sign that orangutans are still in the area.

However, we do not have the full picture and are yet to know what the wider impact will be. The challenges ahead are immense. We will continue our work to protect their habitat, for the benefit of both people and wildlife.

This work includes aerial and ground surveys to determine the full extent of the damage and to locate vulnerable populations, and supporting efforts to repair and replant areas crucial for connectivity.

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