The last six months have gone by in the wink of an eye for Hockey, our resident lady of leisure. She remains lively and alert as she watches the comings and goings of Pondok Dua, the facility where she lives. She must know all the caregivers at the Pondok off by heart by now and moves around expectantly when caregivers come to give their attention to her.

As her caregivers enter the sleeping enclosure to feed Hockey her daily bananas, she turns to greet them. Her mouth waters in anticipation. As they lean in closer, Hockey playfully bites their knee. After feeding and bathing Hockey her caregivers always spend some extra time with her. This can involve brushing her hair, recounting their day, playing music, singing, or simply just being close to her.

Hockey enjoys her visitations even if it’s just for a short time. It does make all the difference. Come rain or shine it’s always a special time for her. As we have all seen over the past several months social interaction is very important for those in isolation. Orangutans are semi-solitary which is unique among ape species, but female orangutans may have complex social interactions. Younger females often socialise, especially with those who are related. Adult females may gather together in trees for food, and offspring may regularly visit with their mothers till they are young adults.

So, all this stimulus is great for Hockey. She needs it and responds so positively to it, making her days just a little bit brighter. Visits from her caregivers help Hockey in ways we can’t even begin to measure. One thing we can measure are the kind donations that you give towards her care. With your support, we have kept sweet, precious paralysed Hockey alive and well looked after for many years. On behalf of Hockey we are eternally grateful.

Click here to download Hockey’s August 2020 Foster Update