HARIANEXPRESS – Indonesian conservationists and the YIARI Foundation rescued a 15-year-old mother orangutan and her infant from a fire-damaged oil palm plantation, (20/9/2026).
The primates were found trapped in a small, burnt area with highly limited food sources. Rescuers successfully evacuated both animals to safety on September 18 using a tranquilizer gun.
Local residents first reported seeing the primates through the West Kalimantan BKSDA hotline on September 16. A joint team verified the report on September 17 and confirmed they were stranded within a burnt patch.
“The two orangutans were found in Pelang Village, Matan Hilir Selatan District, surviving among just a few acacia trees within an area of approximately 400 square meters surrounded by oil palm plantations,” said Argitoe Ranting (YIARI Program Operations Director).
“When the available area is very small and food sources are inadequate, risks to the orangutans increase significantly,” said Argitoe Ranting (YIARI Program Operations Director).
Medical checks confirmed both animals suffered no physical burns or injuries. However, the mother received intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy to treat a fever of 39.5 degrees Celsius.
“Reports can be made to the West Kalimantan BKSDA call center at 0811-5670-041 or 0811-5776-767, allowing situations to be handled in coordination with relevant authorities while ensuring safety for both the public and the wildlife,” said Murlan Dameria Pane (BKSDA Head).
Pane urged community members to contact official hotlines rather than trying to capture distressed wildlife independently. The nursing infant, named Lifa, is estimated to be only one to two months old.
