Orangutans spend most of their time in trees, sleeping in nests and swinging from the rainforest canopies of Indonesia.
Here are eight fast facts about orangutans.
1. Orangutans have been taught sign language. One named Chantek learned more than 150 different American Sign Language signs.
2. The word “orangutan” means “person of the forest.”
3. Orangutans are an endangered species, mainly due to loss of habitat.
4. Alba is the only known albino orangutan in the world. She lives on a private island (with several orange orangutans) that has 24/7 protection.
5. Copycats! Orangutans have been known to watch humans untie boats and cross rivers in them, and then do it themselves. Sandra at the Center for Great Apes in Florida saw zookeepers washing their hands. With bucket and brush, she did the same.
6. Orangutans use tools. They use sticks to get termites out of their holes and to poke logs for honey. Leaves come in handy as gloves, umbrellas, napkins and sponges.
7. When orangutans stretch out their arms, the span can be up to 7 feet. That’s the size of an average Christmas tree!
8. These great apes are the largest fruit-eating animals in the world.
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