At the end of the month of April, authorities in Borneo, an island in Southeast Asia, came to the aid of a female orangutan who had been captured by villagers, reportsThe Dodo.But the animal had one rare characteristic: her fur, far from the typical orange color of her species, was light blonde, and her eyes blue.
Source: Richo Rico
According to caretakers for theBorneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, the female orangutan is an albino, a genetic particularity which affects the pigmentation of her whole body.
Source: Richo Rico
Thankfully, despite her differences, rescuers hope to be able to return her to the wild. The associationwroteon their Facebook page:
We will continue to observe her and conduct routine health tests. She was held captive by local residents for two days and still displays wild behaviors. Once we have fully assessed her health and physical status we will review the best possible strategies for her long-term welfare and conservation.
Source: Richo Rico
The status of orangutans in Borneo and Sumatra is dire. The species are in critical danger of extinction. In less than 10 years, Bornean orangutans have passed from between 45,000 to 69,000 individuals, to less than 3,000. If nothing is done, orangutans will disappear by 2020.
Source: Richo Rico
H/t: The Dodo
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