IAR Indonesia (YIARI) releases another seven orangutans to FREEDOM!
We have wonderful news to share from our partners at International Animal Rescue! Working together, Natural Resources Conservation (BKSDA), Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park (TNBBBR), and IAR Indonesia (YIARI) have released another seven orangutans to FREEDOM! This release marks another successful collaboration between BKSDA, TNBBBR, and YIARI and we could not be more excited!
The orangutans, who had been under the care of YIARI for many years, were released in TNBBBR in West Kalimantan (Borneo) on October 31, 2024. Female/child pairs Rika/Aben and Karmila/Batis took to the trees along with males Muaro, Onyo, and Lambai. Each of these adult orangutans underwent a lengthy rehabilitation process at the YIARI orangutan center in Ketapang, West Kalimantan. All the orangutans had been rescued from illegal captivity. Under expert care, the orangutans learned and perfected essential skills needed for survival before being considered for release to the forest.
During the release, the Head of the West Kalimantan BKSDA, RM Wiwied Widodo, emphasized the importance of preserving Kalimantan's endemic wildlife. "Orangutans are part of Indonesia's biodiversity wealth that must be protected and preserved," he said. These releases are a clear testament to YIARI’s commitment to preserve biodiversity. With support from all parties and supporters like you, we can ensure that orangutans and other species are conserved for future generations.
YIARI has released 82 orangutans in conservation areas since 2016. Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park was chosen as the release location due to its abundant food sources and suitable orangutan habitat. Special teams, involving the surrounding village community, will now monitor the behavior of the orangutans for 1-2 years, to ensure they are adapting to their new environment. We are so happy for the orangutans and everyone involved in this amazing effort!
Let's celebrate this success and keep fighting for a greener and more sustainable future.
