Mongabay · Climate & nature

El Niño Fuels Indonesian Fires Threatening Orangutan Survival

Indonesia faces severe fires fueled by El Niño, threatening critically endangered Bornean orangutans. Experts warn of potential local extinctions and significant population decline.

Fires burn in rainforests holding 13 of the 20 largest orangutan populations. Over 53 orangutans have been rescued, some severely injured. Thousands more could be harmed, experts warn.

The IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group highlights the risk, recalling thousands of orangutan deaths during 1997-98 El Niño fires. Current fires threaten habitat, especially for the Central Bornean subspecies.

Repeated fires hinder restoration and risk "slow extinction" in metapopulations. Orangutans face habitat loss and slow reproduction, limiting recovery.

Fires have entered all lowland protected areas, including three national parks. Research stations and rehabilitation centers are also threatened.

The situation is worse outside protected areas, where nearly half of wild orangutans live. Fires have impacted company concessions.

Beyond immediate rescue, fires cause long-term health issues and habitat destruction. Smoke weakens orangutans and increases parasite infections.

Experts urge sustained investment in prevention and peatland restoration, not just emergency firefighting. International support is vital for immediate response and long-term strategies.

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