Mongabay · Climate & nature

Bornean Orangutan Habitat Threatened by Spreading Fires in Indonesia

Fires are consuming forest habitat in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, critically endangering Bornean orangutans by limiting escape routes and destroying ecosystems.

Fires are spreading across West Kalimantan's fragmented forests, impacting Gunung Palung National Park and the Mendawak Biodiversity Corridor, key orangutan habitats. An El Niño has contributed to hot, dry conditions.

Gunung Palung National Park, a vital orangutan stronghold and research site, has fires affecting an estimated 9,055 hectares. Conservationists worry about habitat loss and research disruption.

Fires threaten research stations, risking decades of valuable data on orangutan behavior and forest ecology.

In the Mendawak Biodiversity Corridor, fires have severely impacted areas like Sungai Paduan Protected Forest. Forests for orangutan escape are shrinking, with fires surrounding them.

Smoke from fires poses a health risk to orangutans, potentially causing respiratory issues. An orangutan's death is suspected to be linked to smoke exposure.

Concessions like PT Mayawana Persada face increased fire risk due to clearing and peatland drainage. Fires have burned within the concession, leading to sanctions.

Stakeholders are working to combat fires and plan for future prevention. Documenting water sources and identifying restoration areas are crucial for orangutan habitat.

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