Tanjung, S Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The South Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) monitors orangutans that were spotted in Habau Village, Banua Lawas Sub-district, Tabalong Regency.
BKSDA forest ranger for Banua Anam Resort Area Aris Fadillah said two large apes or adult orangutans, male and female, were recorded from the monitoring at the location.
"We only found two adult orangutans and according to villagers they saw four," said Aris here on Thursday (April 18, 2024).
This independent monotoring, he said, was a follow-up to reports from community and Habau Village head that some orangutans appeared and disturbing residents' cocunut plantation.
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"We appeal to community and Habau Village officials not to use strictness when driving away orangutan," he said
Orangutans are not wild animals. If they enter residential areas or plantation, residents can drive them away peacefully without throwing them with wood or other objects.
Even though they are not wild animal, these big apes can fight back if they feel disturbed or threatened.
Previously, Habau Village Head Maulana said that the appearance of orangutans was more intense lately and they came to residents' agricultural fields several times last month.
"They used to be in the forest, but currently they entering rice fields near residential areas," said Maulana.
In fact, these animals also eat cocunuts belonging to residents or farmers group.
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