We would like to share the latest developments regarding the forest and land fire situation across BOSF’s areas of operation in Central and East Kalimantan, as of 24 September 2026
Current Fire Preparedness Status
BOSF continues to maintain increased monitoring and preparedness measures across its operational areas. Our current preparedness levels are as follows:
1. RHOI – Green Zone
2. Samboja Lestari – Yellow Zone
3. Nyaru Menteng – Yellow Zone
4. Sebangau – Yellow Zone
5. Mawas – Red Zone
On 20 September, fires were reported in several areas around Mawas, including SPI 2 Canal, M1, and Tuanan Village. The total area affected by fire as of 22 September is currently estimated at approximately 171.5 hectares.
Fire activity remains under close monitoring, with teams continuing suppression and containment efforts where needed.
Continued Fire Preparedness at BOSF Operational Sites
At Nyaru Menteng and Samboja Lestari, teams have begun checking and preparing enclosure capacity should orangutans need to be temporarily moved or rescued as a result of fire conditions. This is a precautionary preparedness measure; there is currently no large-scale orangutan rescue operation underway at either site.
Teams are also preparing additional water and cooling measures around the orangutan enclosures, including the installation of sprinklers, as part of our preparedness for prolonged dry and hot conditions.
At the Forest School, teams are preparing additional clean water containers to ensure that a sufficient supply of drinking water is available for the orangutans if needed.
The BOSF Fire Task Force is also conducting regular inspections along the boundaries of our working areas, including at night, to identify and respond to potential fire activity at an early stage. Teams are also conducting wetting activities around bore wells and other strategic areas as part of our fire prevention and preparedness measures.
Pre-Release Islands: Kaja, Bangamat, and Salat
At the Kaja and Bangamat pre-release islands, no orangutans have been moved to the Nyaru Menteng facilities. However, due to significantly receding water levels, some orangutans have been moved from areas of the islands where water levels have become very low to parts of the islands where water is still available.
Teams continue to monitor and guard 12 areas where water levels have significantly receded. This work is being carried out by the island technical team, supported by the enrichment team and security personnel.
At the Salat pre-release island, six orangutans, Timpah, Nita, Hanin, Baun, Christina, and Winey, crossed towards the camp facilities because the river/canal water levels had become very shallow, with some areas having no water at all. They have been placed in available enclosures at the camp facility, where they can be monitored and provided with the necessary care.
These movements are being carried out in response to the declining water conditions and are part of our precautionary management measures.
Orangutan Respiratory Health Monitoring
As of 21 September, 38 orangutans have shown respiratory symptoms being monitored as acute respiratory infections (ISPA).
The affected individuals are being closely monitored by the Animal Welfare and Veterinary teams. Supportive treatment and care are provided as appropriate, including vitamin C, honey, onion juice, and fluid therapy, depending on the condition of each individual.
Health monitoring remains an important part of BOSF’s preparedness, particularly given the prolonged dry conditions and potential exposure to smoke and other environmental factors associated with the ongoing fires.
Help support BOSF’s efforts during this time by making a donation. Your help is truly appreciated.
Text by: BOSF Communications Team
Will you help us rescue, rehabilitate, and release orangutans back to freedom? Thank you!
