Orangutan Rescued From Wildfire-Affected Area in Indonesia

Wildlife rescuers in Indonesia have rescued an orangutan from an area affected by wildfires in West Kalimantan as teams continue efforts to protect animals living near burned forests.

The orangutan was rescued in Laman Satong village, Ketapang regency, on September 30. A rescuer and a veterinarian from the wildlife foundation Yayasan Inisiasi Alam Rehabilitasi Indonesia, known as YIARI, were involved in the operation.

Rescue From a Fire-Affected Area

The animal was found in a High Conservation Value area within a palm-oil plantation that had been affected by wildfires.

Wildlife teams have been monitoring areas affected by fires because animals can be left without food, shelter or safe routes through their habitat.

The Orangutan Receives Medical Care

After being rescued, the orangutan was taken for treatment by wildlife specialists.

Photographs released through Reuters Connect show a rescuer and veterinarian carrying the animal, while another image shows the orangutan receiving medical attention.

More Wildlife Has Needed Help

YIARI has reported a wider rescue effort in West Kalimantan as fires have threatened wildlife habitats in Ketapang and nearby areas.

According to YIARI, 21 orangutans and 12 other wild animals had been evacuated by September 16 as teams responded to animals affected by the fires.

Teams Continue Monitoring the Forests

YIARI and Indonesia’s natural resources conservation authorities have continued monitoring burned areas and surrounding habitats to identify animals that may still be at risk.

Rescued animals receive health examinations and treatment according to their condition before conservation teams determine the next stage of their rehabilitation.

Protecting Wildlife During the Fires

The rescue in Ketapang is part of ongoing efforts to protect wildlife affected by fires in West Kalimantan.

For the rescued orangutan, the operation provided a chance to receive medical attention after being found in an area damaged by wildfire.

Sources

• Reuters — “An orangutan rescued from an area affected by wildfires in Ketapang” — September 30, 2026.
• Yayasan Inisiasi Alam Rehabilitasi Indonesia (YIARI) — Wildlife rescue and wildfire situation updates, September 2026.