Humans have long been fascinated by all members of the ape family. Orangutans, second largest of the apes after gorillas, rank extremely high on our fascination meter. There’s no mystery about this. We look at orangutans and see ourselves. I felt the same way when I visited the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and watched the human like behavior of orangutans. This pair may have been mother and child, but to me their behavior screamed “best buddies.” Having successfully fended off the macaque monkeys on feeding platform, they turned their attention to
the man with the fruit-filled wicker basket. When his back was turned, they swiftly crept up behind him and tipped over the basket. Then, rather than compete for the booty, they buddied up to share the feast.
Want to know more about orangutans? Click on the following link to read my article about how to see orangutans in the wild on the island of Borneo.
Interesting observation! I’m travelling to Sandakan on business very soon. I am keen now to see these Orangutans myself, I wonder if I’ll have the similar observation? Safe Travels! Luke
Um…,maybe they’re like humans you interact with but I haven’t met any orangutans who build cathedrals or write inspiring music.
Maybe you see yourself when you look at monkeys who sneak and steal and fling feces but please don’t speak for the rest of us.
Thanks
Scarlett – it sounds like you’re bitter and twisted about something. Had a bad experience with monkeys at the zoo?
LOL. Scarlett, I know quite a few humans who sneak and steal, and maybe even a few who fling feces. And just in case you couldn’t figure it out, I am speaking for myself.
I love this snap Barbara 🙂 Orangutans look and feel quite like humans. Mannerisms? Stunningly similar. The pair above is mom and kid, but, yep, feels like best friends, hanging out for a bit. You sense a deeper bond and high intelligence. Amazing how much we are like these guys, and vice-versa.
Thanks Ryan. I found them to be totally mesmerizing.