BONDAN

On March 18, 2025, Bondan and Joss underwent their final medical check-up as release candidates. Initially, Jamilah was originally prepared for release, but it turned out that she gave birth so the release was canceled and Bondan was selected as the next candidate for release. Following the medical examination, Bondan and Joss were moved to the isolation cage, where they will stay while awaiting their release scheduled in May. 

During her final forest school session, which began at 9:00 AM, Bondan was observed searching for ant nests on the forest floor. She was also seen eating a small amount of soil—a common behavior among orangutans. According to several sources, this habit helps supplement their intake of mineral salts, which may not always be available in their regular diet.

Throughout the session, from morning until noon, Bondan mostly explored the canopy alone and only going down to the forest floor twice to forage. Where she ate rattan shoots and young leaves, while in the treetops she consumed tree flowers and various types of fruit.

From midday to late afternoon, Bondan was again observed eating young leaves in the lower canopy before returning to the forest floor. This time, she used a piece of wood she had found as a tool to search for termite nests. This activity lasted about an hour, during which Bondan not only searched for termites but also ate tubers she discovered along her exploration path. Once she had enough on the forest floor, she returned to the canopy and continued exploring, once again enjoying fruits as part of her diet.

Since being placed in the isolation cage, Bondan’s behavior has not changed significantly. Previously, she had to deal with both Joss and Artemis, who often tried to snatch her food, but now with only Joss remaining, Bondan has more freedom to avoid her when necessary. However, outside of mealtimes, Bondan still shows her social side by occasionally approaching Joss to play together.