Orangutans are highly intelligent, largely solitary great apes whose welfare in captivity requires extensive vertical space, rich enrichment and carefully managed social contact.
Orangutan welfare in captivity depends on vertical complexity that most zoo facilities struggle to provide adequately. Their natural life in the forest canopy means ground-level enclosures represent a significant departure from natural habitat use. Cognitive enrichment is particularly important for these highly intelligent animals — object manipulation, problem-solving and novel challenges occupy time and prevent behavioural deterioration. Palm oil consumption driving wild habitat destruction creates a direct link between consumer choices and orangutan welfare.