Unusual news came from Camp JL in Lamandau Wildlife Reserve. Infant Logos received an injury to his left forefinger due to an animal bite. Camp staff are currently unsure which orangutan bit him and how it occurred. As usual, Logos was actively playing in the camp yard and appeared to be in good health until February 1st when he returned to his enclosure.

When the camp staff came to give Logos his milk, they realised that Logos’ left forefinger was injured, but they had not heard Logos crying or showing any signs of unusual behaviour. Camp staff reported Logos' condition to the Reintroduction Manager and veterinarians so he could receive medical attention as soon as possible.

Dr. Dimas asked the camp staff to maintain cleanliness in Logos' enclosure, ensuring it remained dry and leftover fruit and faeces were promptly removed to prevent any infection. Dr. Dimas then directed them to clean Logos’ wound with antiseptic fluid twice a day and administer antibiotics. Logos was then moved into a box for intensive care so he could be easily monitored.

The next day Dr. Wawan came to check on Logos. He was in good condition, with no fever and was not lethargic. Dr. Wawan advised that Logos needed pain relief and medication for the next ten days.

We still cannot be certain what caused his injury. The camp staff reported that Logos was playing normally outside in the nearby forest, but they did notice Mores, a female ex-captive, near Logos’ when she visited the camp. They think that Mores may have unintentionally bitten Logos’ finger, perhaps when trying to eat some of his fruit. All our soft-release residents are monitored, but it is sometimes difficult to notice any brief interactions if they are high up in the tree.

In early February, Dr. Dimas came for the routine soft-release monthly health check. Logos was still in the intensive care box and was not allowed to venture into the yard until his wound dried. He was licking his wound, but the Reintroduction Manager reassured that it was not an issue, and it could help it to heal quicker.

When checking his pulse and respiration, the results were normal, but Logos’ body temperature was quite high at 39 degrees Celsius. Additionally, he seemed to have a lack of appetite as he did not want to eat the fruit provided. He did then eat umbut, drank milk, and camp staff gave him electrolyte fluid orally to keep him hydrated, as well as honeydew after being recommended by the Reintroduction Manager.

The latest update from Camp JL is that Logos’ condition has improved. His wound has dried, his body temperature and appetite are back to normal, but he is still licking his wound and receiving antiseptic fluids. Logos needs to take a rest from his training in the camp yard whilst he fully recovers, but hopefully he will be back playing in no time.

We are all wishing Logos a fast recovery! We cannot wait to see him playing once again!