Kobe has always loved receiving leaves and branches in her sleeping enclosure at the end of the day as part of the caregiver enrichment routine. This has kept her occupied and helped her practise nest building skills. As she has grown older these branches don’t seem to be enough. Kobe loves being in the forest surrounded by Nature. So she should; it is where she belongs after all.

Kobe presents a challenge to her caregivers, as she continually tries to extend playtime in the Learning Forest. She bares a mischievous grin as her dark eyes take in everything around her. Kobe has an intense and manic energy that possesses her. This smart orangutan knows what she wants and doesn’t have time for deadweight. Kobe has been leaving her friends, such as Ulexa and Judy, behind. They don’t seem to be able to keep up as she journeys deep into the forest. Kobe knows how to find a comfortable perch and uses her agility to climb high, sometimes as much as 30 metres into the forest canopy. Here she knows she can build a suitable nest in which she can comfortably rest.

Over the last several months Kobe has been sleeping overnight in the forest and declining to climb down from the trees when her caregivers have tried to coax her down. Enrichment parcels and rattan balls are used to varying effects. Coconuts prove to be a winner as Kobe will climb down for these (sometimes not until the next morning however). She channels her energy into smashing the coconut open, bashing it again and again on the ground to unleash its sustenance from within.

Kobe’s development and independence is wonderful news to hear but we do have to spare a thought for the work of her tireless caregivers, who also have to stay out in the forest to watch over her. Their dedication and devotion are key to the success of the OFI Care Centre. Everything is connected… from your generous donations to their work on the ground. This all works towards a singular goal. To help Kobe and all her friends thrive so they can one day live wild and free.

Click here to download Kobe’s February 2022 Foster Update