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Someday I'm going to: Save Orangutans

$55 Donated to Date

This is our plan

Original plan by: Orangutan Outreach

Step 1: Locate an uninhabited island to be used for a protected sanctuary.

A basic rule of thumb is, the more remote the island, the better and safer it is for the orangutans but we also look at other factors. For example, if there is an existing orangutan population or another large mammal population, we may need to look elsewhere as this can pose a major health risk to the newcomers. As fruit is a major food source for orangutans, we look closely at the population of fruit-bearing trees. We also examine the canopy to insure that there is sufficient space for the orangutans to build nests and live in the trees. This above-ground functioning is important for their safety and survival.
Step 2: Negotiate with local village leaders.

We literally draft a contract and negotiate price and the conditions of use. Generally speaking, these contracts mush span several decades so that the orangutans can settle in and establish sustainable populations. We also address issues such as the method for protecting the island from trespassers, the responsibilities and roles of the local villagers (i.e. for instance, as custodians/guards of the sanctuary) and the provision of fruits and vegetables. In addition to straight money payment, we frequently provide the villages with healthcare services and/or the building and maintaining of schools and other infrastructure projects so that it`s win-win for both the orangutans and the villagers. During every step of the process, we ensure that local people are involved so they are truly invested in the project and want it to succeed.
Step 3: Conduct a survey to determine population size and make-up.

This survey includes a tree count (fruiting and non-fruiting) as well as a complete census of other animals, and any other potential threats and risks. One risk we consider is seasonal changes in water level. Orangutans do not swim but they have been known to wade across shallow waters. We also examine the fruiting cycle of the trees. If an island has mass fruitings every few years, this may indicate that fruit supply is lean in the non mass-fruiting years. In such cases, we plan for supplementary food drops.
Step 4: Prepare for orangutan transfer.

As part of this preparation, we closely analyze the medical and behavioral records of each orangutan to determine who to include in the transfer. Social hierarchy plays a main role in orangutan populations so at this stage we decide the make up of the population including age-range and whether there will be mothers and babies and large males. While making these decisions, we hire locals to help build enclosures, feeding platforms, security posts, communications towers and housing for technicians.
Step 5: Commence transport.

Lone Droscher Nielsen is accompanied by a team of medics, vets, technicians, officials from the Ministry of Forestry, village officials, and a camera crew to document the transfer. Depending on the exact location of the island, the logistics can be quite tricky requiring boats, trucks, airplanes and even helicopters. In addition, the orangutans need to be properly sedated which requires close medical attention. Once the transfer is complete, we leave behind vets to do followup inspections and data collecting. We want to be sure that the orangutans truly have a place to call home.
Step 6: Continue to Raise Awareness.

This is one of our Public Service Announcements.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_crwoONs7xE

Comments

A4S4L4(1056 Days ago)This sounds like something I`d absolutely love to be involved with.
Can I join the camera crew?Flag as Inappropriate