We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again – Tommy’s large and expressive eyes always have a way of pulling us in. Described by his caregivers as curious and friendly, this orangutan constantly finds a way to get what he wants. Over the last six months he has continued to thrive and grow. If this were a dating profile, Tommy would list his favourite activities as playing with friends, climbing trees, going to the swamp, playing in the water and jumping. Tommy is a little picky when it comes to food, but he loves the nutritious but infamously potent fruit durian, so any prospective dates would have to enjoy it as well! Other points in his favour are that his nest making skills continue to improve. An attractive and essential life skill.
One of his preferred treats is a refreshing young coconut. Coconuts never fail to hit the spot for him and make an impressive sight for his caregivers to witness. When offered, Tommy grabs a coconut with his feet and bites into the outer green shell, stripping it off piece by piece. It’s a remarkable display of his jaw strength and sharp teeth. The sound of a thunderstorm in the distance momentarily distracts him; it is after all the rainy season. It’s not long before he returns to his coconut though. He becomes wholly fixated on it until he has completely stripped the outer shell. The remains lie around him resembling a burst mattress as he works on the inner shell. He bangs it on the boardwalk to crack it open and slurps up the juice inside, enjoying every last drop. If there was a competition for fastest coconut opener, Tommy would be a serious contender. It’s a good job that orangutans essentially have four hands, as Tommy proceeds to climb into the trees, holding half of the coconut shell in one hand and the other half clutched in his foot. He finishes it off in peace and solitude in the canopy.
We would “swipe right” on Tommy every time, and we’re glad that you, his foster parents, have essentially agreed, by helping us to take care of and nurture him. We reckon any (orangutan) lady would be lucky to know Tommy!
Click here to download Tommy’s February 2025 Foster Update
