Information on Orangutans » Project18 :: Conservation through Education

Orangutans

Project 18 recently adopted an orangutan as a gift for Rick, our Secretary & Treasurer. His name is Nody, and we're proud parents all over again!!

Information on this page comes with the kind permission of Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Australia who are doing amazing work to ensure that these amazing creatures have the best chance of survival in very difficult circumstances.

In the past 20 years, over 80% of orangutan habitat has been destroyed. In the last ten years, rampant deforestation, illegal logging and massive fires have almost obliterated the orangutan population. More than 3000 orangutans are killed every year. With only limited numbers of orangutans remaining in the wild, time is running out to save them.

How will the adoption money help the orangutans?

Many orphaned orangutans have been rescued, but they must learn the skills to survive on their own in the rainforest before they can be released back into the wild.
At the reintroduction projects the orangutans are looked after by professional staff. They are checked for diseases and re-accustomed to living conditions in the rainforest - this includes developing climbing skills, learning to find food, and socialisation with other orangutans. This can take many years, so the cost is significant. With the food and equipment required, as well as the facilities, rescue vehicles and round-the-clock staff to carefor the infants and teach them how to survive, the average cost from rescue to release is $6000.

What do I receive during my adoption?

For $120 you can adopt either Ruthie or Nody for one year; and it is tax deductible. With this you will receive:

• a certificate of adoption;
• a photograph of your chosen baby;
• an information sheet about your baby;
• quarterly updates on his/her progress;
• our Grapevine newsletter online;
• a gift; and
• all postage is included.

About Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation

Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) is a not-for-profit foundation formed by Dr Willie Smits in 1991, and now supported by many sister organisations world-wide. With help from supporters around the world, BOS has achieved many great successes:
• purchasing thousands of hectares of land to become
eternal nature reserves;
• assisting in the rescue of more than one thousand
orangutans with many subsequently reintroduced into
the wild;
• managing the world's largest primate conservation
project; and
• educating and providing livelihoods for hundreds of
local people.

To adopt an orangutan or to donate to BOS please visit their website at www.orangutans.com.au or download the adoption form here and send it back to BOS