Each year, an estimated 1,000 orangutans lose their lives to habitat destruction and poachers. Given that the already threatened population of orangutans on Borneo and Sumatra numbers less than 50,000, this annual loss is monumental. Without some change to deforestation practices in this part of the world, the natural habitat for orangutans will continue to disappear – along with the species itself. Orangutan volunteer work has become a focal point of conservation efforts within Indonesia and its neighbouring countries. The illegal animal trade seeks out baby orangutans to be kept as pets, but these animals are often kept in inadequate conditions, fed incorrectly, and treated poorly.
Volunteer work with orangutans can take many different forms. From the sanctuaries of Borneo to fieldwork with researchers, the different methods used to help these threatened creatures are all exciting and important. You might fulfil the role of a game ranger, monitoring the movements and numbers of orangutan populations, or perhaps act as a habitat caretaker, ensuring that rescued orangutans receive the care, attention, and conditions they need to survive and thrive. Your willingness to aid in these noble projects is not only personally rewarding, but also acts as an inspiration to others, spreading awareness and interest in protecting this beloved species.
One of the most incredible parts of travelling is the experience of a new environment, culture, and society, and partaking in orangutan volunteer work provides you with all those benefits – and so much more. Taking a holiday to Indonesia and experiencing the natural beauty of the country is even more incredible when you can make a personal impact on the wellbeing and survival of orangutans. The wild population of orangutans could disappear within 30 years, but the support and interest from people like you keep hope for this species alive. If you want to learn more about the volunteer vacation of a lifetime, click here!
