Orangutans have long captivated us with their remarkable intelligence and unique behaviors, and their uncanny human-like nature. Among the great apes, these solitary creatures stand out for their resourcefulness and adaptability. Newfound research accounts for the first documentary of a wild orangutan using plants to heal a wound. Let’s learn more about this and the orangutan’s adaptability.
Orangutan Basics
Orangutan learn everything they need from their mum. Image via Bruce Poon, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Orangutans inhabit the lush rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. They are the largest arboreal mammals, spending most of their lives in the trees. Their distinctive reddish-brown fur and expressive faces make them instantly recognizable.
Using Plants to Heal a Wound
Female orangutan portrait. Image via depositphotos.
Recently, a fascinating scientific article surfaced alongside various new stations covering the story via YouTube. The research shows a wild orangutan’s extraordinary behavior. In the study, an injured orangutan is seen chewing on a particular plant and then applying it to a face wound – probably sustained from fighting with other males in the area. Surprisingly, the study found that the plant that the orangutan was applying was not in their regular diet, demonstrating a remarkable understanding of medicinal plants.
Orangutans can be a little naughty at times. Image via cuatrok77, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The orangutan’s use of the plant to treat its wound astounded researchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This behavior suggests a level of cognitive sophistication previously underestimated in non-human primates.
Orangutans are known for their ability to learn from each other and innovate new behaviors. This healing ritual might be a cultural practice passed down through generations, highlighting the importance of social learning in orangutan communities. Interestingly, the study found that chimpanzees are the only other apes that use plants to self-medicate.
Conservation Implications
Orangutan. By Ridwan0810 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60332364
Understanding the depth of orangutan intelligence and their reliance on natural resources underscores the urgency of conservation efforts. Deforestation, habitat destruction, and the illegal wildlife trade pose significant threats to orangutan populations, endangering not only these incredible creatures but also the delicate ecosystems they inhabit.
Conclusion
Orangutan. Image by Chuttersnap via Unsplash.
This new research on the orangutan using a plant to heal its wound offers a glimpse into the intricate world of these fascinating primates. It shows us of the importance of protecting their habitats and preserving their way of life.
Orangutans will continue to inspire awe and admiration, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. I hope you enjoyed reading about this fascinating discovery, a wild orangutan heals its wound with plant material. To read more stories lie this, check out the articles below:
Laumer, I.B., Rahman, A., Rahmaeti, T. et al. Active self-treatment of a facial wound with a biologically active plant by a male Sumatran orangutan. Sci Rep14, 8932 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-58988-7
Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Biodiversity & Ecology
I spent my childhood in Scotland. In 2014, my family and I traveled around the world for 5 months, and ever since, I have had a passion for nature, adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
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