Orangutans have slow metabolisms and have evolved a lifestyle designed to minimize energy use. Koling certainly got that memo. Koling has calmed down over the last six months and likes to take the time to appreciate the world around him. He is equally happy, lazily sitting on the boardwalk with one hand on his caregiver, as he is jumping and crashing about with his orangutan friends. Be it playground, boardwalk, or forest, Koling likes to be where his friends and caregivers are. That is his priority. He is still a social boy.

Koling exudes a benign and calm demeanour. His deep and thoughtful eyes draw you in like an old storyteller enticing an audience to gather round to listen. His loose chest skin adds to the sense of age and wisdom. You’re drawn closer still and then he confounds expectations by sticking a blade of grass in his mouth, which briefly forms into the shape of an oyster shell. Koling continues to chew on the grass like it’s a stick of gum. This demure orangutan is not self-conscious about anything and lives purely for the Now. He goes about his day slowly. He touches and feels everything that he can lay his hands on, always seemingly filled with a sense of wonder. Enrichment such as ant nests or leafy parcels filled with treats will keep him occupied for hours.

The three words his caregivers have used to describe him are “shy, curious and brave”. It all depends on what mood he is in! Koling remains affectionate with his caregivers and enjoys repeating actions he sees them do. This methodical orangutan sometimes enjoys a slower pace of life when compared with his peers, but won’t pass on the opportunity to have a good tumble and roll around with his friend Sugar. What’s important is that Koling is happy and free to express himself however he wishes. It’s our privilege to provide those opportunities for him until he can one day provide them for himself.

Click here to download Koling’s February 2025 Foster Update