The orangutans are the two exclusively Asian species of extant great apes. Native to Indonesia and Malaysia, orangutans are currently found only in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. Orangutans were considered to be one species until 1996. The orangutans are the only surviving species of the subfamily Ponginae. Orangutans are the most arboreal great apes and spend most of their time in trees. Their hair is typically reddish-brown, and males and females differ in size and appearance. Social bonds occur primarily between mothers and their dependent offspring. Fruit is the most important component of an orangutan's diet. Both orangutan species are considered to be Endangered. Threats to wild orangutan populations include poaching, habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade. There are several conservation and rehabilitation organisations dedicated to the survival of orangutans in the wild. (Read more...)