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80% of orangutans survive outside of protected reserves and national parks. This means that the vast majority of critically endangered great apes are vulnerable to the looming threat of habitat loss. By focusing work on unprotected populations, we can help secure a safer future for the species.
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Beneficiaries
Situation
Forest fires, logging, mining, and plantations are destroying unprotected orangutan habitat at an alarming rate. This in turn removes the orangutan's source of food and shelter, forcing them to become crop-raiders and cling to any remaining standing trees. Those that are not rescued are persecuted or die of starvation, so more must be done to ensure a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.
Solution
Cooperation and participation with local people is key for the survival of this iconic species. Our team of orangutan experts work alongside land-owners and local communities to operate their own landscape conservation programmes outside of protected habitats. By doing this, we can firstly understand where isolated populations of orangutans are surviving, and then form an effective protection strategy.
