Talk on orangutan at UBD
By Zan Hosni 

The Brunei Nature Society recently held a talk entitled 'High Hopes: Prospects for Orangutans in the Third Millennium' at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). Anne E Russon, the speaker for that night, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Glendon College of York University in Toronto, Canada.

The speaker has been studying intelligence and learning in ex-captive Bornean orangutans that have been released in to the wild since 1989. Russon has published a number of research articles on orangutan intelligence and also books on great ape intelligence. She is currently working on a co-edited book on the evolution of great ape intelligence.

The talk was aimed at increasing people's awareness on the high possibilities of the extinction of orangutans and attempted to inform the public on the methods that are needed in order to ensure the survival of orangutans.

It touched on the depopulation of the species due to human development that has directly and indirectly assaulted their natural habitat. Orangutan numbers are also diminishing as a result of hunting pressure.

Russon pointed out that despite efforts by researchers and conservationists to ensure the survival of orangutans, the situation has not improved much, rather the deterioration of the species has unfortunately increased in recent times.

Great apes numbered approximately 315,000 at the beginning of the 20th century. By 1997-1998, their numbers were estimated to be 22,000. Based on researcher's predictions, it is expected that in the next 5 to 10 years orangutans will become extinct unless human practices are monitored and curbed to secure the survival of these great apes.

Russon pointed out several factors responsible for accelerating the extinction rate of the species. Among which were resource extraction, in particular, logging. Population pressures was another primary factor where the great apes were being persecuted, used as captive trade as well as exploited as a method of promoting ecotourism. Unpredictable climate and fires were also a determinant in a major loss of orangutan habitat. Poor enforcement has more or less aided in the exploitation of the species and is unlikely to be improving in the near future.

According to David Edwards, President of Brunei Nature Society, also Dean of the Faculty of Science in UBD, the society is going to hold an outing on May 25 - a sunset walk along the Kota Batu ridge which will take about two hours. Those interested may join the group who will be meeting at 4 pm at Jubilee Hotel.

Another talk is also scheduled and will focus on 'Adventures in and Around Borneo' and will meet at 8 pm on June 10 at the same venue.

The society, established in 1975, encompasses a wide membership circle of people from various fields. Its members, currently more than 90, include lecturers from the Science Department of the university, other teaching professionals from various learning institutions as well as their family members who have developed an interest in nature-related subjects.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin