Orangutans: Guardians of the Rainforest
Orangutans, the critically endangered great apes native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra, play a vital role in maintaining the health of their forest ecosystems. As "ecosystem engineers," they help to disperse seeds, fostering the growth of the forest and ensuring biodiversity. However, these remarkable primates are facing a dire future due to habitat loss, poaching, illegal pet trade, and palm oil plantations encroaching on their natural habitats.
There are now fewer than 100,000 orangutans remaining in the wild, with the Sumatran orangutan and the Bornean orangutan classified as critically endangered, and the Tapanuli orangutan found only in a small region of Sumatra, facing an even more precarious future. Habitat destruction, particularly from deforestation driven by illegal logging and unsustainable agricultural practices, continues to be the leading threat to their survival.
Our Conservation Commitment:
The Topeka Zoo is committed to protecting orangutans and their habitats as part of the SAFE – Saving Animals From Extinction program. Through this initiative, we are working to secure a future for orangutans and support global conservation efforts aimed at protecting these incredible creatures.
Our efforts include:
Partnering with the SAFE Orangutan Program
The Topeka Zoo is proud to be part of the SAFE Orangutan Program, a collaborative effort among AZA-accredited zoos, conservation organizations, and local governments. This program focuses on protecting orangutans in the wild and enhancing the long-term viability of their populations.
Fighting the Palm Oil Crisis
As part of the global effort to combat unsustainable palm oil production, the Topeka Zoo educates the public about the impact of palm oil plantations on orangutan populations and promotes sustainable palm oil sourcing. We encourage consumers to make informed choices and choose products certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).
Raising Awareness through Education
The Topeka Zoo works tirelessly to educate the public about the challenges orangutan face. Through our exhibits, events, and community outreach, we share the importance of protecting these incredible animals and their rainforests. Public awareness is a crucial part of mobilizing action to stop deforestation and reduce the illegal wildlife trade.
SAFE Program
Orangutan
The vision of the SAFE Orangutan program is to protect and restore wild orangutan populations and their habitats through public awareness, increased funding, and field work that focuses on the long-term protection of orangutan populations.
An App Empowering Consumers to Make Sustainable Decisions
PalmOil Scan
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) through the WAZA Palm Oil Subcommittee and its member institution Cheyenne Mountain Zoo representing the United States and Canada, is proud to announce the launch of PalmOil Scan.This mobile app is a crucial initiative in explaining why zoos and aquariums must care about palm oil while also empowering consumers to make sustainable decisions.
Join the Fight to Save Endangered Species
Together, we can make a difference. By supporting Topeka Zoo’s initiatives, you’re helping protect vulnerable species, restore habitats, and ensure a future where wildlife can thrive. Join us in taking action today!