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How are Bornean orangutans different from Sumatran and Tapanuli orangutans in geographic range?

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The geographic ranges of the three orangutan species are distinct based on the islands they inhabit:

  • Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) are found across large portions of the island of Borneo.1
  • Sumatran orangutans (P. abelii) and Tapanuli orangutans (P. tapanuliensis) are both restricted to the northern region of the island of Sumatra.1

While Bornean orangutans occupy a broader distribution across their respective island, the Sumatran and Tapanuli species have more limited ranges within northern Sumatra. All three species are currently classified as critically endangered due to significant habitat loss and other human-related threats.12