Like humans, all great apes are extremely intelligent with humans and orangutans sharing over 96% of their DNA. Like us orangs recognize themselves in the mirror, learn from and teach each other new skills, and they have also been shown to take another individual’s perspective, meaning they are able to see a situation with empathy and through another’s eyes.

From scientists they have learned communication skills, such as human sign language and the use of computer touch-screens. In zoos, orangutans are well known as the most adept tool users of all the animals, including the other apes, and the best escape artists too!

The single biggest threat to orangutans in the wild in both Borneo and Sumatra is the loss of their rainforest habitat. However, young orangutans are also still highly valued as pets, although it’s illegal to capture or keep them. Cruelly orangutan mothers are invariably killed to obtain their infants.

With all of these facts burning fiercely in my mind I use my soft pastels to bring something of my love and respect for nature’s other beings to the fore. It is a fact that nature does not need humans but we simply cannot exist without nature. It really is that simple. And as David Attenborough once said ‘The earth only has one problem!’ ……leaving the audience to decide who that problem might be.

If you wish to help with conservation and an end to illegal wildlife trade go to https://natureneedsmore.org/

Pastel on PastelMat paper