Rickina and Ricko

Rickina and Ricko snuggling in the canopy

Weighing around 43 kg, Rickina is showing very positive progress in her natural behaviours, particularly in her role as a calm and capable mother.

One of the most encouraging aspects of Rickina’s development is her strong maternal instinct. She spends much of her time with Ricko, gently guiding him to stay in the trees, play, and explore safely. Their bond is close and constant, and she remains attentive and supportive as he learns the skills he’ll need for life in the forest.

Their days follow a relaxed and natural rhythm. Mornings often begin with Rickina resting in the trees before descending briefly for supplementary feeding. Afterward, she gradually returns to the forest, travelling and exploring with Ricko close by. Depending on food availability, she may spend more time playing with him or continue moving in search of natural food sources.

Rickina is becoming increasingly confident in her foraging. She feeds on a variety of forest foods, including seeds, liana bark, and young simpur shoots. She still enjoys provisioned favourites such as corn, sweet potatoes, jicama, eggplant, and cucumber, but continues to supplement these with her own foraging throughout the day.

Both Rickina and Ricko spend most of their time in the trees when feeding or resting, although they do come to the ground occasionally, particularly after morning feeding. Socially, they tend to keep to themselves, with Rickina focused primarily on caring for Ricko, though she will sometimes join others when fruit is available.

Rickina also displays some thoughtful and endearing behaviours. She has been seen arranging branches and clearing small patches of grass to create comfortable resting spots, sometimes adding leaves for extra comfort. Her nesting skills are strong - she often builds nests twice a day, in the morning and evening, and will sometimes return to improve an earlier nest with fresh materials.

They receive enrichment twice daily, including natural items such as nipa palm stems filled with nutritious treats. Rickina engages well with these activities, especially when they encourage exploration and problem-solving. Both Rickina and Ricko remain in excellent health. They are active, relaxed, and showing no signs of stress or illness.

Thank you for supporting Rickina and Ricko as they continue their journey. With your help, Rickina is giving Ricko the care, confidence, and knowledge he needs to grow and thrive in the forest.