Dozens of orangutans rescued as Indonesian wildfires rage

· Climate · Indonesia

Conservation groups have saved at least 51 critically endangered orangutans in Indonesia between August 6 and October 19 as rampant wildfires and a months-long pollution spell threatened their natural habitat, according to reports. A team evacuated the animals from locations in Kalimantan. The fires have also produced haze spreading to neighbouring countries, forcing school closures and mask advisories across Southeast Asia.

Why it matters：Wildfire-driven habitat loss accelerates a biodiversity crisis and produces transboundary pollution affecting millions across Southeast Asia.

Key points

  • At least 51 orangutans were rescued from August 6 to October 19.
  • The animals were evacuated from locations in Kalimantan.
  • The fires have caused transboundary haze across Southeast Asia.

Sources (original reporting)

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