Peat Swamp Forests
Many orangutans live in a unique peat swamp forest habitat, one of the lowest lying areas of the rain forest ecosystem. Steamy acrid air, spongy ground and streams of black water loaded with small fish and leeches are all characteristics of the peat swamp habitat. Orangutans live about 75 feet above the forest floor in a canopy of vines and foliage supported by different species of trees. They particularly utilize the ironwood tree, whose hard and dense wood resists decay from insects and moisture.
Lowland Forests
Orangutans also live in the higher and dryer lowland forests of Borneo and Sumatra, a habitat distinguished by its biodiversity. Within an acre, it is possible to find hundreds of species of trees that produce jackfruit, mangos and other fruits that are the mainstays of the orangutan's diet. The trees also act as pillars for the forest canopy. Female orangutans search the canopy for food, especially the fruit of the durian tree. Males spend brief periods hunting for food on the forest floor.
Lowlands Flora and Fuana
The lowland rain forests of Boneo and Sumartra have one of the richest collection of plants in the world. Thousands of species of orchids grow on the forest floor and above in the tree canopies. Spectacular plants such as the rafflesias that produce enormous 3-foot wide blossoms grow next to hundreds of ferns and sprawling vines. Orangutans share this habitat with a dozen other primates, nearly 400 species of birds and small mammals such as deer, pigs and rats. During the day, the forest is loaded with insects, particularly mosquitoes. At night, bats and other nocturnal species are active.
Climate
Orangutans live in a rain forest climate dominated by steady heat and humidity. Temperatures range from 78 to 85 degrees throughout the year. Rain falls heaviest in January when it can reach 28 inches. Dry season peaks in July when precipitation dips to about 7 inches. Monsoons and monsoon winds also contribute to the tropical conditions that foster the biodiversity of the rain forests.
Threat
Orangutans were placed on the endangered species list in 1970. Hunters and poachers took a toll on their numbers, but the more significant threat is the loss of their habitat to farming and timber interests. Conservation organizations agree that the best way to protect orangutans from extinction is to protect their habitats.