At two years of age, Felix remains one of the more sensitive young orangutans at Jungle School.
Little Felix hitching a ride to Baby Jungle School
Weighing 7.3 kg, he is still small and cautious, preferring the safety of his comfort zone and the reassurance of the keepers he trusts. Felix can be easily startled and doesn’t always trust quickly, but with patience and gentle encouragement he continues to grow more confident in his forest classroom.
Felix often stays close to the babysitters during Jungle School, especially those he feels safest with. One of his favourite carers is Rara, and when she is nearby, he will sometimes move toward whilst crying to be picked up. Even so, Felix is gradually becoming braver, exploring the trees around the keepers while still keeping a reassuring distance. While climbing does not come easily to him at first, when given time and space he can surprise everyone - occasionally climbing over 10 metres high to sit quietly in the trees, observing the other orangutans around him.
Check out this adorable video of Felix having a rest on an enrichment hoist basket during Jungle School.
Felix enjoys a forest diet that includes young leaves, flowers, and dead wood, which he happily forages for during Jungle School. Unlike some of his friends, he is not a fan of cucumber or pumpkin, but he makes up for it with his enthusiasm for natural forest foods. One of his favourite enrichment treats is durian and other luscious fruits, which he eagerly investigates whenever they are offered.
Over the past months Felix has also been learning important new skills. He is becoming more comfortable exploring trees up to five metres high during Jungle School and is slowly building friendships with other young orangutans. He particularly enjoys spending time with Pansy, Harapi, Bagus, and Eboni, and although he can still be cautious, these friendships are helping him grow more confident in social situations.
Felix recently completed treatment for tinea pedis, a fungal skin infection on his feet. After around six weeks of medical care, he has now fully recovered and is doing well. He continues to receive five milk bottles a day to support his development as he grows stronger.
Felix may still prefer the comfort of familiar carers and take his time when exploring new challenges, but each small step forward shows how much he is learning. With patience, care, and the safety of Jungle School, Felix is slowly building the skills and confidence he will need for the forest.
Thank you for supporting Felix and helping him continue his journey toward a future in the wild.
