If a fairy tale character with a distinctive red hood were to pass by Pondok Dua, it would be fair to say that one particular orangutan would catch her eye, and not just because of the orangutan’s distinctive beauty. If Little Red Riding Hood saw Carmen she would probably exclaim, “My what long arms you have!” To which Carmen would reply, “All the better for swinging in the trees with.”
The last six months have seen Carmen’s body grow bigger and her limbs longer. She easily outsizes most of her peers in their common sleeping enclosure. Her long limbs are never more noticeable then when she assumes her normal position in the forest, with all four limbs spread out clutching branches and vines. She seems ever so happy and tranquil when she is like this.
Mostly content to be in the background, Carmen is an orangutan who enjoys consistency and routine. Easily a favourite amongst her caregivers, she will make her way into the forest and back with a quiet, almost regal dignity. Where others rush in, she takes her time to move methodically and with care.
Carmen has also started growing much more assertive; she is no more a shrinking violet. For the most part Carmen may seem like a backup singer in the choir of the forest, but if she has something to declare, she will confidently take the spotlight. She is at the age where she knows her own mind and what she wants. She will shake the branches if someone is too near and even spit at them if she is uncomfortable; she is not always quite so dignified! She will hungrily come forward for any good enrichment on offer.
We are happy to keep you informed about Carmen’s steady progression, thanks in no small part to her generous foster parents. Thanks to your support Carmen can reach higher and go further than ever, as and when she chooses.
Click here to download Carmen’s August 2019 Foster Update