George Terry may have just turned 11, but he’s been an orangutan ally for some time. For his seventh birthday, he asked for donations to BOS-UK rather than gifts. For his 11th birthday, he chose to do the same again. The amazing friends and family who helped George celebrate his birthday also helped him raise nearly £290. Overall, he hopes to raise £400 by the end of March. Although we’re curious about his plans to do that, we confess to being more curious about how and when George caught orangutan fever.
What is it about orangutans that made you such a dedicated fan?
On a television programme, I saw a baby orangutan who had lost its mother, and its habitat had been destroyed. It made me so sad. I was about four years old, but I wanted to help them. They are so cute, especially the babies. I love the colour of their hair. I also like the flanges on the males!
What’s your favorite orangutan fact?
They have 97% of the same DNA as humans.
How has your awareness of the harm caused by unsustainable palm oil changed what you do, maybe even what you eat?
I don’t eat food that has [unsustainable] palm oil in it. That started when I was four. It means I miss out on a lot of yummy snacks, and I can’t have cakes at birthday parties, but that’s OK. It’s worth it. At home, I check labels on products, and then let my mum and dad know if we’ve bought something that breaks the rules about palm oil or isn’t sustainable.
Sounds like you’re serious about this!
Yes. I’ve also done presentations to my school, the whole school, and also, my scout trip to raise awareness.
What do you most want people to know about how orangutans can be saved from extinction?
That avoiding [unsustainable] palm oil in food and other things really matters. Going without and making small changes will help their survival.
If you ever get to visit the rainforest in Borneo, what do you hope you to see and do?
I would love to explore the rainforest and hope to see an orangutan and other species in the wild. I would also like to volunteer at a rescue centre helping to rehabilitate orangutans so they can safely go back into the wild.
How do you see your love for wildlife and the environment influencing what you do when you’re older?
I love nature. I hope to have a job where I can help and protect the environment. And, support endangered animals that aren’t as well-known to people. I would love to do that.
Tell us more about the “walk for orangutans that you’ve planned. How far? What’s the route like? Who’s joining you?
In March, I’m walking from my village to Salisbury cathedral. This is to raise money for BOS. It’s about 7 miles. The route is pretty hilly and tricky. Some of my family will do the walk with me. I hope some of my friends will join me, too.
That’s amazing, George. Best wishes for the upcoming trek! And thank you so much for all you’re doing to save a species that means a lot to you 🧡
If anyone wants to leave a tip in support of George’s upcoming walk, you can find his JustGiving page below:
Will you help us rescue, rehabilitate, and release orangutans back to freedom? Thank you!
