KOPRAL’S RECOVERY
Do you remember Kopral, the orangutan with no arms? He is our superhero when it comes to determination, resilience and a positive attitude. Last year, he seriously injured his right foot, which is extremely tragic for a double-arm amputee who depends on his feet to live a self-determined life. Let’s check in to see how his recovery is progressing.
We are pleased to announce that our beloved Kopral has made significant progress in his recovery. Since he was moved from his individual enclosure to the socialisation complex last year, his movements have become noticeably more active.
Larger area with various enrichment
Kopral’s individual enclosure had limited space, which restricted his movement and made it difficult for him to exercise and explore. Now, he has access to a larger area filled with various enrichment items to keep him engaged and stimulated. Among the enrichment equipment in his enclosure are several wooden beams of different sizes installed on the floor. These beams play a crucial role in helping Kopral practice his grip, an essential skill for his recovery.
When his caretakers transferred Kopral, his new enclosure had only one hammock. This was because, during his early days in the socialisation complex, he was still adjusting to the new space and tended to stay in one spot where he felt most comfortable. However, as he grew more confident, Kopral began to explore the enclosure more frequently, climbing and even hanging upside down while gripping the bars with his legs.
While in his enclosure, enrichment items, such as wooden beams, tubs and hammocks, keep Kopral stimulated and engaged.
Additional safety and support
This behaviour raised some concerns among the animal welfare team. To ensure Kopral’s safety and provide better support, they installed an additional, larger hammock in the middle of the enclosure. While the space now looks fuller, the addition of the second hammock greatly aids in Kopral’s training and rehabilitation process.
Aside from being physically active, Kopral also enjoys observing his surroundings. Whenever he hears the calls of other orangutans nearby, he actively looks around, trying to locate the source of the sound and figure out what is happening.
A minor setback treated promptly
However, his curiosity recently led to an incident. While placing his foot near the enclosure mesh, Putu, a neighbouring orangutan, accidentally bit his toe. Fortunately, the injury was minor, and our veterinarians immediately treated it with a medicated spray.
Kopral’s relationship with his caretakers is also progressing well. He eagerly awaits his meals, and when he sees a technician approaching with food, he impatiently bangs his foot against the cage bars to get their attention. He particularly loves fruits, although he is not fond of luffa (gambas).
Progressing slowly but surely
Kopral continues to show significant improvement, but he still receives infrared treatment twice daily as part of his rehabilitation. Remarkably, Kopral has adapted well to this routine. During treatment sessions, he remains calm and cooperative, readily extending his leg for the procedure.
Way to go, Kopral! We can’t wait until you can return to your Sanctuary Island.
