Orangutan conservationists plan forest bridge in Indonesia
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The Yayasan Ekosistem Lestari (YEL) is studying the feasibility of building an arboreal bridge within the Batang Toru ecosystem in Indonesia, the habitat of the Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis).
The organisation hopes this project will lessen damage to the orangutan’s environment. YEL data shows forest cover in the Hutaimbaru ecological corridor decreased from 9,958.38 hectares in 2004 to 8,980.84 hectares in 2024. This means over 1,700 hectares of orangutan habitat disappeared over the last two decades.
The planned bridge aims to connect fragmented forest areas, allowing orangutans and other wildlife to move more safely between them. Researchers believe the structure will help maintain the genetic diversity of the Tapanuli orangutan, a critically endangered species. YEL is currently assessing the best location and design for the bridge to ensure it effectively supports the ecosystem and the orangutan population. They will need to consider factors like tree species, bridge stability, and potential impact on other wildlife.
