We all know how clever the primates are. According to scientists, the genetic difference between human beings and primates is less than two percent. Therefore it should be naturally when seeing a primate acting just as a human. However, we have to admit it is quite surprisingly to spot an orangutan using a spear tool to catch fishes.
And while the wildlife experts pretended to spot orangutans using tools back in the 90s, I have to admin it was actually really hard to believe. That until we got the perfect proof, a photo.
Gerd Schuster co-author of Thinkers of the Jungle: The Orangutan Report, is the one who delivered the fascinating photo. “The extraordinary image, a world exclusive, was taken in Borneo on the island of Kaja,” he wrote.
“A male orangutan, clinging precariously to overhanging branches, flails the water with a pole, trying desperately to spear a passing fish…
“This individual had seen locals fishing with spears on the Gohong River. Although the method required too much skill for him to master, he was later able to improvise by using the pole to catch fish already trapped in the locals’ fishing lines,” Mr. Schuster described the incredible scene.
Sir David Attenborough was also impressed by how skilful the orangotans are. Watching his BBC video bellow, you’ll understand why!
