SELFIE: A RESCUED BABY ORANGUTAN FROM TUMBANG SAMBA

On August 12, 2024, the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre received a report about a baby orangutan in Tumbang Samba Village, Katingan Regency, Central Kalimantan. The female orangutan, estimated to be 10 months old, was found by a local resident who worked as a deer hunter. Before being confiscated by authorities, the baby orangutan had been kept as a pet for about a month and was then handed over to the Central Kalimantan BKSDA office.

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The following day, on August 13, 2024, a joint wildlife rescue team from Nyaru Menteng and the Central Kalimantan BKSDA traveled to retrieve the baby orangutan. Upon arrival at the rehabilitation center, the baby was given the name Selfie and immediately underwent a thorough health examination to assess her condition.

As a baby orangutan who had been in close contact with humans, Selfie was placed under a three-month quarantine period. This step was crucial to monitor her health closely and prevent the spread of any diseases. After completing quarantine, Selfie was introduced to the nursery group, where she began interacting with other baby orangutans.

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Although her condition is now stable, Selfie’s facial expressions often show a lingering sense of anxiety. Fortunately, the dedicated surrogate mothers at Nyaru Menteng know exactly how to care for a vulnerable orangutan like Selfie, ensuring she receives the love and attention needed to grow and adapt.

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Selfie’s story highlights the challenges faced by orphaned orangutans due to human-wildlife conflicts. It also underscores the importance of rescue and rehabilitation efforts in giving these animals a second chance at life in the wild. We hope Selfie continues to grow stronger and more independent, paving the way for her eventual return to her natural habitat.