‘Cries of delight’ as Sumatran orangutan filmed using canopy bridge to cross road for first time
Summary
A critically endangered Sumatran orangutan was filmed for the first time using a canopy bridge to cross a road in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The bridge was built in 2024 to help animals safely cross a busy road that divided the orangutan population and threatened their survival.Key Facts
- The bridge was built high above the Lagan-Pagindar road in Pakpak Bharat district, North Sumatra.
- The road had divided around 350 orangutans into two isolated groups, risking inbreeding and population decline.
- The bridge took two years before an orangutan was captured on camera crossing it.
- Other species like black giant squirrels, long-tailed macaques, and gibbons have also used the bridge.
- Orangutans are the largest tree-dwelling mammals and spend most of their time in the forest canopy.
- There are only about 14,000 Sumatran orangutans left, making them one of the most endangered ape species.
- Local officials say the bridge shows it is possible to protect wildlife while developing human communities.
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