Animal Guide

Sumatran Orangutan

24 destinations · 18 states

Native Range: Northern and western Sumatra

Sumatran orangutans are the kind of animal that can make a busy zoo visit slow down. Spend a few minutes near their habitat and watch how deliberately they move, using their long arms and strong hands to climb, swing, and reach between branches. Those hands are especially interesting to watch. Orangutans can grasp food, ropes, and branches with remarkable control, sometimes using their feet almost like extra hands. They also spend plenty of time simply observing their surroundings, which can make eye contact or a quiet moment at the glass feel surprisingly personal. Look for facial expressions, careful food choices, or a youngster staying close to its mother. Sumatran orangutans are found in the forests of northern Sumatra, where they spend much of their lives in trees. Their reddish hair stands out against the greenery, but it's their slow, thoughtful movements that often keep people watching longer than expected.

Sumatran Orangutan

Where to see Sumatran Orangutan

24 destinations across 18 states

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