An update on the current forest and land fire situation in Central and East Kalimantan, including the latest condition of the orangutans under our care, the potential impacts on their habitat, and BOSF’s ongoing preparedness and response.
Orangutan management on pre-release islands
Due to declining river levels during the dry season, we have relocated 14 orangutans from the Kaja, Bangamat, and Salat pre-release islands to ensure their safety and maintain appropriate management conditions.
In addition, one orangutan from Salat Island, Zahri, was relocated for medical treatment of an injury. These movements are precautionary measures in response to changing environmental conditions on the pre-release islands.
Orangutan rescued near fire-affected area in Tumbang Nusa
On September 14, 2026, BOSF, together with the Wildlife Rescue Unit (WRU) of SKW 1, BKSDA Central Kalimantan, successfully rescued a male orangutan found near a fire-affected area in Tumbang Nusa, Central Kalimantan. The orangutan is estimated to be about 20 years old and weighs around 70 kg. His health is currently being monitored. The team also observed prior injuries to the toes of his left foot and the fingers of his left hand. He is currently housed at the Nyaru Menteng transit enclosure, where he is receiving care and ongoing health monitoring. Once his condition improves and the veterinarian determines he is fit for release, he will be translocated to an appropriate, safe habitat.
This is the first orangutan BOSF has rescued in connection with the current forest and land fire situation.
Respiratory health monitoring
We are also closely monitoring respiratory symptoms among orangutans. Between 16 August and 13 September 2026, 31 individual orangutans were recorded with respiratory symptoms, based on 62 observation records.
The observations primarily include sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose. BOSF teams continue to monitor the affected individuals and provide management or supportive treatment as needed.
Mawas fire situation – red zone
Fire suppression and containment efforts are continuing as conditions develop, particularly around areas of importance for orangutan habitat and BOSF and partner reforestation areas. The total area currently affected by the fire is still being assessed and cannot yet be accurately determined, as fire activity remains ongoing in several locations.
Recent fire activity includes:
1. 11 September: A fire in Tuanan village affected approximately 14 hectares.
2. 11–12 September: A fire in the Mantangai Hulu Village area affected approximately 7 hectares.
3. 14–15 September: Fire activity was again recorded in Tuanan village. As of this evening, the Mawas team and the Mangkutup Village fire response team (RPK) are continuing suppression efforts.
Mawas remains under our Red Zone preparedness level, reflecting the ongoing fire activity and elevated risk in the area. The fire remains active, but the team has successfully contained its advance to prevent it from moving towards the Tuanan Research Camp. The Mawas team, together with the Tuanan research team and local community members, remains on standby to closely monitor the situation and respond to any further fire movement.
Increased preparedness across our sites
In response to current conditions, BOSF has increased monitoring and preparedness at its operational sites. The Fire Task Force is conducting regular inspections along the boundaries of our working areas, including at night, to identify and respond to potential fire activity early.
At Nyaru Menteng and Samboja Lestari, teams have also begun assessing and preparing enclosure capacity should orangutans need to be temporarily moved or rescued due to fire conditions. This is a precautionary preparedness measure; there is currently no large-scale orangutan rescue operation underway at these sites.
We are also reviewing our air quality monitoring requirements to better assess smoke exposure and identify conditions that may require additional protective measures. Depending on air quality and exposure levels, these measures could include reducing orangutan school hours and outdoor activities, increasing health monitoring, or providing medical intervention where necessary.
Help support BOSF’s efforts during this time by making a donation. Your help is truly appreciated.
Text by: BOSF Communications Team
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