Wildfires and a prolonged drought spurred by the El Nio weather phenomenon have caused "mass starvation" and possible extinction of orangutans, according to wildlife officials in Borneo. Although environmentalists are unsure how many orangutans are left in the wild, some estimate they may number only in a few thousand.
Willie Smits, head of the Wanariset Samboja primate refuge, which currently harbours 150 orangutans rescued from the fires, said: "The jungle is black and bare. There is no fruit, no leaves, no bark. There is nothing for them to eat.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.