Rescued baby orangutans learn survival skills at indonesian “jungle school”

In the forests of Northern Sumatra, a unique classroom is giving orphaned orangutans a second chance at life. At the Orangutan Information Centre (OIC), veterinarians and biologists are running what they call “jungle school” – a rehabilitation program for young orangutans rescued from the illegal pet trade.

The curriculum is unlike any other: climbing techniques, nest-building skills, and foraging for food. These essential survival lessons, normally taught by their mothers, must now be provided by human caretakers. The ultimate goal is to prepare these orphaned primates for eventual release back into their natural habitat.

The need for such programs has become increasingly urgent. Sumatran orangutans once thrived throughout the island’s lowland forests, but their population has plummeted by more than 80% over the past 75 years. This devastating decline stems from widespread habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict as palm oil plantations and development continue to encroach on their forest homes.

Sanctuaries like OIC represent a crucial frontline in orangutan conservation efforts. While rehabilitation cannot solve the broader crisis facing these critically endangered great apes, it offers hope for individual animals caught in the crossfire of human expansion. Each successfully rehabilitated orangutan that returns to the wild represents not just a conservation victory, but a small step toward preserving one of our planet’s most intelligent and remarkable species for future generations.