THE JOURNEY OF A WANDERER TO FREEDOM IN THE WILD

Runtu, a 23-year-old female orangutan, is one of six successful releases into Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park (TNBBBR). Runtu, a returned orangutan from Thailand, has been having challenging rehabilitation at the Nyaru Menteng rehabilitation Centre since 2006.

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A representative of the Central Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) released her transport cage, representing the beginning of her journey to freedom. Runtu displayed little aggressiveness, despite initially turning back towards the release team. Instead, she gently climbed into the trees and continued her journey deeper into the forest.

Runtu’s Distinctiveness: A Smart Explorer

Runtu's intelligence and adventurous spirit have been recognised since her rehabilitation at Nyaru Menteng. This was particularly apparent during her time on Salat Pre-Release Island, where she was frequently spotted exploring with other orangutans, such as Nett. Her adventurous behaviours persisted even after her release, as she demonstrated high mobility during post-release monitoring (PRM) at TNBBBR.

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Runtu has a unique habit of rarely descending to the ground, preferring to stay at heights above 11 meters. During PRM, she even ‘lost’ at times, moving swiftly across cliffs and outpacing our team. On several occasions, Runtu was observed in areas with elevations of up to 1,500 meters above sea level, demonstrating her courage and adaptability to challenging terrain.

High Feeding Rate: Adapting to Forest Food Sources

One of Runtu’s remarkable traits is her excellent feeding capability. With an average feeding rate of 45% to 63%, she quickly adapted to the food sources in her new habitat. In TNBBBR, Runtu consumed various natural foods such as uwar, tree sap, and cambium. These natural food sources provide the energy needed for her active lifestyle.

Collaboration and Social Interaction with Happy

At the same release site, Runtu interacted with Happy, a male orangutan released at the same time. Their relationship appeared positive, as they were observed copulating early in the release. Although they were separated for a few days, they eventually reunited and exhibited similar interactions. This bond offers great hope for the regeneration of the orangutan population in Kalimantan’s forests.

Hope for The Smart Explorer

As an orangutan who has undergone a long journey from rehabilitation to release, Runtu stands as a shining example of the success of conservation programs. Her release underscores the collective commitment to conservation efforts involving multiple stakeholders.

Read also: A FRESH START AT LIFE IN THE FOREST

We hope Runtu will not only thrive as an individual in the wild but also contribute to the growth of the orangutan population in Kalimantan. With her intelligence, quick adaptability, and strong social abilities, she has a great chance to survive and reproduce in her new habitat. Runtu’s journey is a testament to how orangutans who once lost their homes can return to their natural habitat and begin anew in the forest that is their true home.