Dublin Zoo has opened a new luxury home for its family of Bornean orangutans.
The 'Orangutan Forest' habitat is five times the size of their previous home and was inspired by the tropical rainforests of Borneo.
Orangutans are arboreal animals that spend the majority of the time in trees.
The new enclosure has 11 trees, ranging to between seven and 12 meters high, that will encourage the orangutans’ natural climbing behaviour.
It also includes elevators that bring their food to the top, and a brand new rope bridge, so the animals can climb across a public path above your head.
Image via: Dublin Zoo
The forest will be home to Sibu, his mate Leonie, their daughter Riona and niece Mujur as well as siamang gibbons, also found in South East Asia.
Director of Dublin Zoo Leo Oosterweghel said: “Every detail of Orangutan Forest has been considered carefully with the wellness of the orangutans in mind. This wonderful new habitat will add complexity to their lives and stimulate their natural behaviours”.
Sibu: Yeah yeah, so when's the food? pic.twitter.com/9za28UY41S— Helen Vaughan (@HelenVaughan24) June 8, 2016
Bornean orangutans are classified as and endangered species with approximately 54,000 remaining.
Over the past 30 years, 80% of orangutan habitat has been destroyed due to widespread deforestation.
To raise awareness of the plight of the orangutans, Dublin Zoo has launched a major fundraising initiative.
Image via: Dublin Zoo
From June 11th-19th, the zoo will donate €2.50 from every ticket purchased to the Orangutan Foundation.
The public can also get involved by texting “Save” to 50300 to donate €2 or give money to any collection points on South King Street on June 11th and 12th.
