BONDAN

As the final forest school session of 2024 approached, Bondan and her group were surprised with a special Christmas Treat in the middle of their activities. What made this moment even more unique was that the animal keeper, dressed in a Santa Claus costume, distributed the treats, creating a cheerful holiday atmosphere.

When the animal keeper approached them in the Santa Claus costume, the reactions of Bondan and her group members were quite different. Joss and Artemis appeared frightened by the Santa Claus figure. They immediately ran up to the tree canopy, away from the forest floor, and observed the situation from a distance.

However, Bondan displayed courage and calmness. At the time, she was enjoying her afternoon meal on the forest floor and showed no signs of fear. Even when the animal keeper approached, Bondan remained calm, as if undisturbed by the presence.

Bondan’s curiosity was evident when she noticed the frozen fruit satay Christmas Treat. Intrigued, Bondan walked over to the animal keeper and casually took the treat. Without hurrying, she enjoyed the satay on the forest floor, sitting next to the animal keeper, demonstrating her high level of self-confidence.

Meanwhile, Joss and Artemis took longer to approach their Christmas Treat. Once the animal keeper stepped away, they slowly descended from the tree canopy and carefully took the treats.

This moment highlighted Bondan’s unique character, which was bolder and more relaxed compared to her companions. The Christmas Treat not only provided food enrichment but also an exciting new experience for the orangutans at forest school. The differing reactions of Bondan, Joss, and Artemis illustrate how each individual has their own personality and way of adapting.

At the forest school, Bondan continued to display her independent and relaxed nature. She often explored alone in the middle or upper canopy, far from Joss and Artemis. Bondan seemed comfortable staying in a tree of her choice, occasionally swinging to nearby trees.

Bondan showed her skills in utilizing the forest’s resources. In the canopy, she ate young leaves and tree bark. When feeling bored, Bondan descended to the forest floor to continue her exploration. There, she found rattan fruit and ant nests, adding to her meal.

Although she spent most of her time in the canopy, Bondan wasn’t hesitant to spend time on the forest floor. There, she appeared to relax, occasionally exploring for additional food like leaves. When on the forest floor, Bondan seemed unfazed by the presence of the animal keeper nearby. This showed her high level of adaptation and comfort with her surroundings.

Bondan’s habit of exploring alone, both in the trees and on the forest floor, reflects her independent nature. Her consistent activity of searching for and enjoying natural food further highlights her survival skills, which are one of the key criteria in the rehabilitation process.