Research

Orangutans are remarkably intriguing animals given their many similarities to humans and for this reason a significant amount of research has been carried out into their habits and behaviour.

The Intelligence of Orangutans

According to psychologist Robert Deaner who has research orangutans extensively, they are the most intelligent animals on the planet other than humans. They are now widely deemed to have higher learning and problem solving ability than chimpanzees, the animals which were previously considered to be the most intelligent after humans.

These findings have been supported by a study carried out by Carel van Schaik, who discovered that orangutans are capable of carrying out tasks far beyond the ability of chimpanzees. These tasks included using leaves to make rain hats and roofs over their sleeping area. In some instances adult orangutans would teach their offspring how to use tools.

Human Behaviour

Furthermore, in 2008 a study was conducted at Leipzig Zoo which showed that orangutans are the first non-human species ever to use so-called ‘calculated reciprocity’, which involves weighing up the costs and benefits of various gift exchanges and keeping track of these over time.

It has also been suggested that orangutans have shown laughter-like vocalizations in response to physical contact, such as wrestling.