Peat fires burning for land clearance destroy orangutan habitat and trap animals in smoke-filled forest fragments, creating acute welfare crises requiring rescue.
Orangutans trapped in forest fragments surrounded by fire experience smoke inhalation, heat stress and acute fear. Burned and injured animals require intensive veterinary care over weeks to months. Rehabilitation from trauma and captivity takes years before animals are suitable for reintroduction. The psychological welfare of highly intelligent, long-lived social primates is significantly impacted by displacement and loss of social groups.