The latest arrival at International Animal Rescue’s orangutan rescue centre in Ketapang is a baby called Pedro. In contrast to baby Ujang who arrived only days ago, the latest addition to the Ketapang family is in good physical condition and very calm and relaxed.
The orangutan had been kept by villagers in Kapuas Hulu but was handed over to members of WWF who took him to the BKSDA¹ Putu Sibau. IAR’s team in Indonesia received news about Pedro on 29 July when they were told that the baby would be sent to Pontianak and then be transported from there to Ketapang. Pedro arrived at Ketapang airport at 4.15 on the afternoon of 1 August.
The BKSDA Ketapang received the baby orangutan at the airport before handing him over to members of International Animal Rescue’s team. Vet Dr Anita immediately checked his condition and found him to be very relaxed and calm, in spite of the journey he had undergone and his unfamiliar surroundings. The head of section of the BKSDA carried out the official transfer of the orangutan into IAR’s care and Pedro was then taken to IAR’s centre to begin his rehabilitation.
Upon arrival at the centre, a more thorough health inspection was carried out, as is the case with all new arrivals. Pedro was assessed to be in good condition, with a weight of 2.3 kg and a temperature of 37.4˚C. As he gave all the signs of being healthy and strong, no further medical investigations were deemed necessary at that stage. He is being given milk every hour.
Karmele Llano Sanchez, Veterinary Director of International Animal Rescue Indonesia, said: “We are happy to see that this young baby is at least healthy, in spite of the fact that he has clearly lost his mother and his home. We are doing all we can to help these orangutans, but the long term solution lies in effective law enforcement and an end to the destruction of the orangutans’ home. Killing or keeping an orangutan is a punishable offence, but offenders are rarely charged or punished - hence the fact that our centre is caring for a rapidly increasing number of victims of these crimes.”
1. Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam – the Natural Resources Conservation Agency