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Orangutan means “person of the forest” and is a fitting name for a primate that is happy to spend its day hanging out in the treetops. The only truly arboreal ape, the orangutan is also the largest tree-dwelling animal.

orangutan in grass

Did You Know?

Orangutans are highly intelligent, able to fashion tools, solve puzzles, and operate computers.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Pongo pygmaeus abelii

Range:
Northern Sumatra

Habitat:
Tropical rainforest

Height:
3.8 to 4.5 ft

Lifespan:
28 years

Zoo Location:
Jungle Trails

Diet:
Fruit, shoots, bark, insects, vines, bird eggs, and small vertebrates

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Critically endangered)