Rescue continues as 53 orangutans are rescued from burning habitat - Indonesia

[Jakarta Current Affairs] Continuing forest fires in Indonesia are causing damage to the habitat of endangered orangutans. A wildlife conservation organization announced on the 18th that it had rescued 53 orangutans since August, but rescue efforts are proving difficult.

Forest fires estimated to have burned more than Shikoku, monitoring site estimates - Indonesia

In Indonesia, forest fires occur every year during the dry season due to burning of fields for land clearing. This year, the strong El Niño phenomenon has combined to cause more damage.

Orangutans live only on the islands of Kalimantan and Sumatra and are listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The exact number is unknown, but it is said to be on the decline due to deforestation and poaching.

According to YIARI, an organization that works to protect orangutans and other animals in Indonesia, 53 orangutans were rescued in West Kalimantan province between August 6th and October 18th. Analysis of satellite images shows that fires are spreading in its habitat.

Rescue operations in a forest on fire are extremely difficult. This is because the events are held in high temperatures and smoke, and orangutans often climb up into tall trees to escape the flames. Furthermore, while the capacity of human resources and shelters is limited, it is also difficult to find a place where animals can be safely released back into the wild.

In an interview, YIARI spokesperson Herbertus Suchadi stressed that rescue is only a "last resort". "We need a comprehensive approach through habitat conservation, effective fire prevention, responsible land management, and collaboration with local communities and relevant authorities."