For fans of Orangutan Jungle School, some names stand out more than others; orangutans whose personalities, antics, and courage have captured hearts around the world. Beni, Valentino, Bumi, and Cinta are more than just TV stars; they are survivors, learners, and ambassadors for their species.
Beni: The Big Boy with Endless Antics
Beni became a fan favorite for his mischievous personality and boundless energy. From pulling playful pranks on his friends to enjoying a mountain of bananas, audiences around the world fell in love with him. But Beni’s journey started with hardship.
On April 8, 2016, a tiny two-year-old Beni was rescued from Mangkatip Village. He weighed just 4.3 kg, underweight for his age, and suffered from dehydration, fever, and worm infections. Despite this, Beni retained his natural wild behaviors and a curious spirit.
After years of Forest School and rehabilitation at Nyaru Menteng, Beni is now thriving on Salat Island, enjoying mud baths, foraging for figs and wild guavas, and confidently exploring the forest. He has grown into a strong, skilled, and independent orangutan, ready for the wild.
Valentino: The Cheeky Class Clown
Valentino, nicknamed “Cheeky Valentino,” is the joker of Jungle School. Rescued on Valentine’s Day in 2015 as a tiny baby alone on a riverbank, Valentino quickly captured the hearts of caregivers and fans alike.
Known for his playful curiosity and occasional mischief, Valentino loves to sneak fruit from feeding boats and explore the forest. While he still enjoys some creature comforts, he’s steadily learning to rely on natural foods and hone the survival skills he’ll need for independence. Currently, he is thriving on Badak Besar pre-release island, preparing for a life back in the wild.
Bumi: The Adventurous Explorer
Bumi, whose name means “Earth,” is known for his adventurous spirit and playful energy. Rescued as a newborn in grave condition on June 18, 2016, Bumi was so weak he could barely open his eyes. But through care and perseverance, he has grown into a strong, brave, and mischievous young orangutan.
Bumi loves climbing tall trees, swinging from vines, and snacking on his favorite fruits, especially bananas and melons. Now in the pre-release stage on Bangamat Island, Bumi continues to refine the forest skills that will help him thrive independently.
Cinta: The Fearless Tomboy Now Free in the Wild
Cinta has completed her journey from orphan to wild orangutan. Rescued on Valentine’s Day in 2013 at just five months old, Cinta quickly became known for her playful, fearless nature. She loves surprising her caregivers with antics like tossing twigs or dashing through the trees.
After graduating from Forest School, Cinta was released into Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park in December 2023. She now thrives in her natural habitat, navigating the jungle, socializing with other orangutans, and living the life she was born to lead.
These four extraordinary orangutans show the power of care, rehabilitation, and dedication. They are not just stars of Orangutan Jungle School; they are living proof of what is possible when humans stand up for wildlife.
Your support helps BOSF provide essential care, food, and forest school education to hundreds of orangutans like Beni, Valentino, Bumi, and more. Every contribution brings them one step closer to the freedom they deserve.
Will you help us rescue, rehabilitate and release orangutans back to freedom? Thank you for helping us save orangutans!
