Crystal’s year has got off to a fantastic start with continual daily releases going hand in hand with love and affection from her caregivers. Crystal has grown and developed so much in such a short space of time that it has surprised even her caregivers. She has really relaxed and accepted Camp Danielle as her new home.

A day out with Crystal is one filled with activity and adventure. To begin with, her caregiver Ibu Eteng leads her out to the Camp Danielle playground where the two of them take a seat on a bench. Crystal picks a spot nestled behind Ibu Eteng and proceeds to crawl along the seat. She reaches out one of her impressively hairy arms towards nearby bushes and leaves. Anything natural she lays her hands on, she invariably sticks into her mouth.

Next Ibu Eteng takes Crystal for a walk along the boardwalk leading from Camp Danielle. Crystal walks herself and is not carried. A walk that would normally take about 2 minutes turns into a 20-minute odyssey. Crystal gets all the time she needs as she continues attempting to grab anything near her. Using one arm to hang onto Ibu Eteng’s trouser leg, Crystal stretches the other arm beyond the boardwalk reaching for blades of grass or leaves from bushes or small trees. With one foot wrapped around the side of the boardwalk Crystal leans further out if her prize is just out of reach. She is almost there when her leg gives way making her lose her balance and fall face forward. Undeterred, she quickly shakes this off and plants both feet firmly down and anchors herself to the boardwalk. Finally, she stretches forth and grabs blades of vegetation. Crystal is a fast learner and she knows how to keep herself entertained. She rips up blades of grass up and makes a neat little pile with their remains. Leaving the boardwalk behind, caregiver and small orangutan carry on their journey. Crystal is still a youngster and she will have many days like this ahead that we can look forward to.

After a long day Crystal slumps down on her back and uses Ibu Eteng to rest upon as a cushion. Cats and dogs do pass by the camp on occasion and today a known tame dog who has wandered into the edge of the forest is sitting not too far away. Crystal doesn’t even react. She knows by being close to her caregiver that she is safe and has no need to worry. We are confident the next six months will be just as fantastic and carefree for our Crystal.

Click here to download Crystal’s February 2021 Foster Update