PRM Team Observes Rafli, Ajeng Together

Our post-release monitoring (PRM) team from Nles Mamse Camp, deep in the Kehje Sewen Forest, recently reported the good news that they had observed two orangutans who have been living in Kehje Sewen for a number of years: Rafli and Ajeng.

Our PRM team members had been conducting routine phenology plotting – to check on the trees and plants that orangutans consume – when they suddenly noticed Ajeng relaxing in the top of an adjacent tree.

Ajeng

Not long after spotting Ajeng, the team heard cracking noises coming from the canopy nearby.  A huge, cheek-padded male came into view and made his way toward Ajeng. He was identified as Rafli, ruler of the Kehje Sewen! This dominant male with a super-large range has a strong dislike for humans.

Rafli

Ajeng did not seem to mind Rafli’s presence: However, Rafli, quickly objected to the team’s presence! An alert individual, Rafli spotted our team in the bushes and immediately let out a loud kiss-squeak. It was so loud, it gave the team goosebumps! Rafli’s hair stood up on end, prompting the team to move away and observe from a distance to avoid upsetting the big guy.

During careful observations, the team noticed that Rafli and Ajeng seemed to be pairing up. Rafli followed Ajeng everywhere she went, and the two shared food and occasionally held hands. Rafli seemed besotted by the beauty before him; he ate etlingera shoots without even looking at his food, eyes fixated on Ajeng.

The romantic moment soon came to an end once Ajeng started moving off in the direction of the PRM team. Rafli trailed behind after her, and upon spotting team members let out another loud kiss-squeak, forcing the team to leave the scene.

Knowing there was no way to continue the phenology survey with these two love birds around, the team decided to return to camp and leave it for another day.

Text by: PRM Team, Nles Mamse Camp, Kehje Sewen Forest

You can support our monitoring team. DONATE NOW to the BOS Foundation!

How Can You Help

There are lots of ways you can support orangutans and help ensure the survival of this precious ape.

Adopt an Orangutan

Adopt an Orangutan

Orangutans are endangered and at risk of extinction. Habitat destruction results in hundreds of orphaned orangutans, who rely on our care every year. You can help by adopting one. Their dedicated ‘nannies’ teach them everything they need to know for when it’s time to release them back to the wild. You can follow their progress through Forest School.

Adopt Now
Make a Donation

Make a Donation

Please help the Orangutans in their struggle for survival. Your donation is important and goes directly to BOS Indonesia. By donating, you are helping bring this noble yet endangered species back from the brink of extinction and on a path to freedom - from rescue to rehabilitation and release.

Donate Now
Visit Our Shop

Visit Our Shop

The perfect gift for any occasion! Choose from our selection of instant gifts that directly support our orangutans. You can buy a wheelbarrow, provide food for an orangutan for two months or lots more. You will receive a certificate, personalised with the name of your choice - perfect gift for you or a friend.

Shop Now