Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Foundation

FROM THE NURSERY TO THE CANOPY

Orphaned baby orangutans under our care urgently need a new school due to increased human activities in the area around our current Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. The BOS Foundation has purchased new land and needs to develop facilities to continue the rehabilitation of hundreds of orangutans. The new area, Nyaru Menteng 2, will ensure the future of our unique Forest School, which is a beacon of hope in our mission to rehabilitate rescued, orphaned orangutans. However, the new area currently lacks supporting facilities and access to the forest. That's why we urgently need your support to construct boardwalks, buildings for our human surrogate mothers, feeding platforms, an orangutan playground, and overnight sleeping enclosures for the young students.

Meet Forest School pupil, Bumi!

Meet Bumi. The BOS Foundation rescued Bumi back in 2016 when he was in a very poor condition, weak, injured, and shivering. Initially, the rescue team estimated that Bumi was around 2 months old, but upon further examination, they learned he was only a couple weeks old. The veterinarians swiftly prescribed antibiotics to help heal his wound and prevent infection, but Bumi was so weak he couldn't even open his eyes. Under their 24/7 observation and care, Bumi thrived and eventually overcame his illness. Now, this healthy, rambunctious young boy is attending Forest School.

The rehabilitation process is essential for young orangutans to learn the skills they will need to survive in the wild and grow into independent and confident adults. Integral to this process are the surrogate mothers. Each and every one is completely dedicated to the care of these youngsters, but today we want to take a moment to spotlight Ibu Sri, a true orangutan warrior.

Surrogate mothers like Ibu Sri play a crucial role in the rehabilitation journey of the young orangutans. From providing constant, reassuring care to teaching essential survival skills such as climbing, foraging, nest building, and threat identification. The guidance and care of the surrogate mothers for the young orangutans creates a safe space for them to flourish. However, accessing the Forest School is a daily challenge since the surrogate mothers cannot climb like orangutans. Therefore, navigating difficult terrain to reach the forest classrooms remains a persistent obstacle for these unsung heroes. 

Ibu Sri and the other surrogate mothers need:

• Access to Forest School: Safe walking paths over the swampy forest for the surrogate mothers to reach the Forest School area when they are carrying bulky supplies (and sometimes orangutans).
• Workstation: The workstation will be used for rest, storage of supplies, and other operational activities that support the Forest School activities.

How important are access paths and the workstation for Ibu Sri?

In this new location, adequate access paths are essential to reach Forest School. Imagine the surrogate mothers who have prepared the supplies for the day in the tropical heat and humidity, but are stuck trudging through a deep peat swamp. With proper paths, their journey will be safer and more comfortable, allowing them to carry the little orangutans calmly. The journey to freedom already contains enough hurdles and challenges, let’s at least make their daily trips to Forest School uncomplicated.

By helping Ibu Sri and other surrogate mothers, you are also helping the orangutans! Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a tangible difference in the lives of orphaned orangutans. Join us in creating a brighter future for these remarkable creatures and the dedicated individuals who tirelessly care for them. Donate today and become a part of this inspiring story of hope and resilience.

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