As habitat dwindles, Sumatran Orangutans are being forced closer to civilization which has resulted in increased conflict with humans and ultimately, a higher casualty rate for Orangutans. Because Orangutans are becoming easier to observe in the wild, eco-tourism has flourished with many tours offering Orangutan viewing experiences. While the situation is ideal for increasing awareness, it has also resulted in many conflicts from guides illegally feeding and encouraging toursits to pet and hold Orangutans. In this image, a female Orangutan prepares to chase a guide in hopes of obtaining food. A week before this image was taken, the mother was slashed in the face with a machete when she attacked a guide who was attempting to feed her and her child. stock photo

Cavan Images

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Matt Stirn

As habitat dwindles, Sumatran Orangutans are being forced closer to civilization which has resulted in increased conflict with humans and ultimately, a higher casualty rate for Orangutans. Because Orangutans are becoming easier to observe in the wild, eco-tourism has flourished with many tours offering Orangutan viewing experiences. While the situation is ideal for increasing awareness, it has also resulted in many conflicts from guides illegally feeding and encouraging toursits to pet and hold Orangutans. In this image, a female Orangutan prepares to chase a guide in hopes of obtaining food. A week before this image was taken, the mother was slashed in the face with a machete when she attacked a guide who was attempting to feed her and her child.

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