The voice of the orang-utan
Orang-utans can make up to 13 different types of sounds including:
  • Screaming when scared
  • Grinding their teeth in frustration
  • Roaring
  • ‘Long call’. This sound is made by males using his throat pouch an can be heard up to 1km away. This alerts other males to his presence and attracts females.
  • ‘Laughing’ in response to physical contact like wrestling, play chasing or tickling.
Body language
The orang-utan also uses gestures. For example:
  • Shaking and throwing sticks to indicate disapproval
  • Baring their teeth as a show of aggression
  • Hair bristling
  • Stretching, jumping, arching back
  • Thrashing on chest

Orang-utans also have facial expressions.


 

Orang-utans are amazing creatures but things are not so rosy in their world: deforestation, poaching and other irresponsible human activities are pushing them to the brink of extinction. We have to do something NOW to save their fast-dwindling numbers. Otherwise, by the time our grandchildren are born, there will no longer be any orang-utans left in the wild. Dr Jane Goodall, the famed primate expert, once said 'Only if we understand can we care, only if we care will be help, only if we help shall they be saved.' That's a pretty good place to start.

Did you know that orang-utans have been taught sign language?

Did you know what orang-utan’s fruit is? It could be the same as yours!

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