Orangutan, the old man of forest, is an endangered species that lives in rich tropical forests. For decades, these magnificent animals have been threatened with extinction by deforestation for the sake of industry. International Orangutan Day was created to raise awareness about their plights, and help in protecting them.

Sumatra and Borneo are the only places where orangutans can be found. The two species that live there were previously considered to be one species. Further research revealed that these two species are two distinct species, which diverged around 400,000 years ago. Orangutans can reach almost 7 feet from tip-to-tip. This is remarkable considering that they stand only 5′ above ground. Orangutans rarely stand upright and their hands almost touch the ground when they do.

These arms are long enough to suit their arboreal lifestyle. They can move between trees and create shelters from large leaves from their canopy homes. Orangutans spend 90% of their lives in the treetops. This makes deforestation especially devastating as they rely on the trees for food and shelter. Although they are primarily herbivores the omnivorous orangutan can eat bark, insects and meat, if they have it. International Orangutan Day is a day to raise awareness about the fact that these forest inhabitants need protection before disappearing forever from the Earth.

Take the time to learn as much information as you can about these amazing creatures. Learn about their lives, whereabouts and social connections. They have interesting family lives and complicated social relationships. Once you have all the information you need, you might consider visiting a local zoo to see them live. Nothing makes them feel more real than being in their presence.

You’ve seen these magnificent creatures and you want to make sure they don’t disappear. Share what you know with your family, sign petitions online to protect them, and think about volunteering to one of the many organizations that tirelessly work each year to preserve the species.