Comments on: Orangutan from Borneo photographed using a spear tool to fish

By: Rebecca Reeder

Rebecca Reeder — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:32:58 +0000

Hi Mike, I think the original prediction was 2020, based on the rapid rate of destruction of rainforest, and the extremely small number of wild orangutans left on the island of Sumatra. As the years went by, and 2020 became closer, the predicted date became shortened to “ten years.” As is the case with much information on the web, statistics get repeated without adjustment. What was 10 years in 2010 may now be only eight. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly as there are occasional glimpses of hope as government officials visit various orangutan orphan centres and/or agree to work together for more sustainable practices. And yet, sadly, the world demand for palm oil continues to grow. So we can’t blame the Indonesian worker who sees an opportunity to make a living in the palm oil industry and feed his family, make life better for his children, etc.

By: Krista O.

Krista O. — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:52:50 +0000

terimah kasih! Thank you. Gracias. merci

By: Krista O.

Krista O. — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:52:02 +0000

but the part of the island that is Malaysia is not called Kalimantan. I think we all agree that colonialism did harm to many people, we’re glad to see countries be independent… it is sad to see people all over the world interested in orangutans but then starting to argue. We’re all the good people here. Only we can make a difference in the world.

By: Steven Posey

Steven Posey — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:11:08 +0000

This photo is perfect, but I suppose that is to be expected if it was taken with some kind if video recorder. David Cooper’s question about whether orangutans eat fish or not has not been adressed here yet, as far as I could see. Folks were too interested in what the proper name for islands in Indonesia should be. I thought orangutans only ate fruit and veggies, but I’m not an expert on orangs. If they don’t eat meat, this is not an adaptation for survival (unless this individual is turning into an omnivore), just mimicking (should I say “aping”?) human behavior.

By: kweezy

kweezy — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:26:19 +0000

The picture is real i have seen orangutans many times using objects they find for tools to forage for food. Watch orangutan island on animal planet. its on @6am eastern standard time….

By: Mike

Mike — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 01:13:24 +0000

That quote “orangutans are predicted to be extinct in the wild in less than 10 years” is all over the Internet, but I’m unable to find a source. Do you have one ?

By: Michelle Merrill

Michelle Merrill — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 06:41:11 +0000

See comment above regarding Neesia sp. fruit (not a durian).

By: Michelle Merrill

Michelle Merrill — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 06:40:18 +0000

The fruit in question is in the genus Neesia – locally at Suaq Balimbing on Sumatra (where the tool use was reported, and where I studied them in 1999) the fruit is known as chemangang. The orangutans were eating the rich seeds once they pried them out.

I’m not sure where the description “plexiglass needles” came from. My experience with it was like “fiberglass slivers” (that protect the seeds) inside a very tough, woody outer shell.

By: Micro to Macro - Page 24 - Christian Forums

Micro to Macro - Page 24 - Christian Forums — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 07:54:04 +0000

[...] link) that actually verifies the behavior you are describing. That would rock SO MUCH Sure. Orangutan from Borneo photographed using a spear tool to fish Primatology.net __________________ "Debating creationists on the topic of evolution is rather like trying [...]

By: LeRissa

LeRissa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 03:33:27 +0000

I initially stumbled upon this site while searching for that much-talked-about picture of an orangutan spearing a fish – a great photo, indeed.

However, I was appalled by what Purba Negoro commented.

“Borneo” an obsolete term? No wonder he is “Purba Negoro” – Ancient/Pre-historic Country (man).

He seems to be particularly irked also by what he calls the “whiteys”, in addition to other nationals other than his own.

So why share your prejudice in English? Why not use your native language as your repertoire of communication?

Then we all won’t have to understand you (gladly).. and trust me, we won’t miss you here.