As it is Orangutan Awareness Week we wanted to bring you a bit more information about an island that is still shrouded in mystery for many. Borneo is one of only two places in the world that is home to the Orangutan, and here at The Great Projects we wanted to introduce you properly to their magical island home!
Where is Borneo?
Borneo can be found on the equator in South East Asia. The island is often a cause of confusion for many as it is split between three countries. Malaysian Borneo, Indonesian Borneo and the state of Brunei all make up the third biggest island in the world. The majority of the island forms part of Indonesia, with the north western chunk of the island belonging to Malaysia and nestled in this is the tiny state of Brunei.
Map of Borneo
Borneo Weather
The weather in Borneo is very hot all year round, with temperatures averaging from around 27 degrees up to 32 degrees Celsius. Borneo is a very humid island with levels reaching around 80% for much of the year. It can rain up to 4000mm per annum on the island, and as it is mostly covered in rainforest this is what you should expect if you travel over to South-East Asia.
Animals in Borneo
Borneo is home to a wide variety of animal species that live in its rainforests and the surrounding waters, but two of its most famous residents are perhaps the Borneo Orangutan and the Borneo Pygmy Elephant! Other animal’s resident on the island include; Tigers, Rhinos, Sun Bears, Proboscis Monkeys and Clouded Leopards so the wildlife on Borneo is incredibly diverse and well worth visiting if given the chance.
Problems in Borneo
One of the key problems facing Borneo is the deforestation which occurs on a daily basis. Vast swathes of forest are cut down regularly by logging companies who are exploiting the land for profit. Alongside deforestation, Borneo also regularly faces a huge problem in the form of forest fires. As farmers use the slash and burn technique to clear the land for palm oil plantations, these fires can often get out of control and cause smoke and harm local wildlife (you can read more about this here.) One final problem facing the island of Borneo is that of wildlife hunting and trading. Orangutans, Tigers and elephants are all highly prized for different reasons in the black market and they are mercilessly hunted, poached and taken from their natural environments. If you want to help make a difference, then why not volunteer with Orangutans in Borneo and help the Great Apes regain a foothold in their natural home.
Why you should visit
Borneo is an incredible destination with diverse wildlife, breathtaking scenery and welcoming locals who want you to share in the splendour of their island home. The Orangutans need your help and there is no better place to aid the Great Apes conservation than in their natural habitats on beautiful Borneo. It is a trip you will not regret. If you are interested in visiting then we can help, whether you want to go to the world famous IAR Orangutan center or Samboja Lestari we can help your Borneo holiday dreams come true!
