Monitoring released orangutans provides many interesting and challenging experiences for members of our PRM team. The team from Nles Mamse Camp in the Kehje Sewen Forest recently set off into the forest to observe mother-infant pair Signe and Bungaran, who were released in December 2016.
Using telemetry signalling, we located Signe and Bungaran in the top of a tree, enjoying bark. Not wanting to disturb them, we established a safe distance and began monitoring.
Signe and Bungaran
That day, we discovered something new about 3-year-old Bungaran: He is now more willing to explore the forest on his own, and is not afraid to forage a distance from his mother. He also bravely tries new foods.
Signe busily savoured bark while Bungaran moved with ease through the trees and dangled from lianas, stopping every now and then to taste-test fruits. He ate plenty of bark, young leaves, fruits, and shoots. Clearly, he is becoming a very active, independent orangutan. With the great guidance he is receiving from mother Signe, we are convinced that Bungaran has a bright future in the Kehje Sewen Forest.
Bungaran eats shoots
We are extremely proud of Bungaran’s progress! It is always a relief to see released orangutans adapting well and thriving in their true home; a wild forest. Stay healthy, Signe and Bungaran!
Text by: PRM team in Nles Mamse Camp, Kehje Sewen Forest