HEALING, LEARNING AND GROWING AT FOREST SCHOOL
Rescued in mid-2025, Nia is making encouraging progress in her rehabilitation journey. Despite facing some minor health challenges in recent months, she remains active, curious, and full of energy. These qualities reflect both her resilience and the attentive care she receives every day.
Early Signs and Medical Care
In August, Nia’s caregivers noticed a yellowish discolouration in her right eye. After a thorough examination, the medical team diagnosed her with a corneal ulcer and promptly administered medicated eye drops. Encouragingly, her condition improved quickly, and by the following day, she was declared clear of any issues.
However, Nia later began rubbing her eyes more frequently, indicating that something was still bothering her. Upon closer examination, the medical team discovered lice or mites around her eyelids. These parasites are tiny, making them difficult to detect without careful observation. It turned out that other orangutans in the Nursery Group had the same issue, including Momo.
To address this, the medical team continued treatment with medicated eye salves and eye drops to ensure the parasites could be safely removed and prevented from spreading. The treatment is ongoing, and the veterinarians are closely monitoring Nia’s condition.
Little Nia remains unstoppable, even while undergoing treatment for the parasites in her eyelids.
Active and Unstoppable Despite Discomfort
Despite the discomfort around her eyes, Nia shows no signs of slowing down. She remains highly active and continues to climb tall trees during Forest School sessions, confidently navigating the canopy. She has even begun practising nest-building, an essential skill for wild orangutans. While her nests are not yet sturdy, given her young age, these early attempts mark an important step in her development.
Each day at Forest School, Nia wastes no time. She typically climbs a tree right away with fruit in her hand. Once she has finished it, she looks for young leaves to eat. This behaviour appears to be inspired by her close friend Selfie, who is known for her fondness for tender young leaves on her lips. Observing and imitating Selfie, Nia has begun adopting the same habit, highlighting how young orangutans learn through social interaction.
Beyond climbing and feeding, Nia also enjoys playful moments on the forest floor. One of her favourite activities is splashing and playing in a muddy puddle within the Forest School area. It’s not uncommon for her to return covered in water and mud, which is a joyful sign of her exploration, playfulness, and comfort in her environment.
Growing with Care and Confidence
Nia’s story highlights the importance of both careful medical attention and allowing young orangutans to remain active and expressive during their recovery. With continued treatment, close monitoring, and the unwavering support of her surrogate mothers, Nia continues to grow stronger: physically and behaviourally.
Each day brings new lessons, small challenges, and meaningful progress. Step by step, Nia is learning what it means to be an orangutan, developing the skills she will one day need for life in the wild.
You can support the care of our rescued orphans by adopting one of them here.
