The Sumatran orangutan (Indonesia) is one of three species of orangutans, endemic to the northern part of the Indonesian island of Sumatra.
It is rarer than the Bornean orangutan, but more common than the Tapanuli orangutan, also endemic to Sumatra.
His name derives from the union of the terms “orang” (person) and “hutan” (forest), “man of the forest”.
Encounter with the Sumatran orangutan in the jungle
During my trip to Sumatra, I encountered several of them, although with a certain physical difficulty, since the paths in the jungle are always muddy, very steep and full of leeches.
On the first outing alone, I had five leeches on my ankles.
I met solitary female orangutans, mothers with baby orangutans, large dominant males with their characteristic developed cheek discs, and young sub-adults.
Per incontrarli è necessario avvalersi di guide locali che conoscono bene i sentieri, poiché perdersi è molto facile con la folta vegetazione. It is also important to know the animals’ habits, such as schedules and territoriality.
Photograph of the Sumatran orangutan
To take photographs I have always and only used a Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, both for a question of brightness and for a question of size, but also for the size of the subject which, if too close, would not fit into the frame.
A unique experience in nature
My experience with orangutans in the wild was unique, as these extraordinary creatures display fascinating behaviors and distinctive traits.
The orangutan is also present in various parts of Indonesia, but the encounter with the Sumatran orangutan has a particular charm due to the rarity of the species.
