“Face to Face with the Forest King: Pepe in Prevab”
That afternoon, along the quiet river leading to Prevab, we witnessed something truly extraordinary an incredibly rare appearance of Pepe, a majestic adult male orangutan estimated to be over 50 years old. His powerful presence and calm demeanor, so close to us, turned an ordinary day into an unforgettable moment.
Male orangutans are naturally solitary and highly cautious creatures. They tend to avoid direct interaction, especially with humans. That’s why seeing Pepe come this close was not just rare it was awe-inspiring. The ongoing fruiting seasonmay be the reason he emerged from the depths of the forest, seeking his favorite fruits now abundant in the wild.
Pepe is a Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus morio), a subspecies found only in Borneo (Indonesia & Malaysia). Known for being stockier and heavier than other orangutan species. Characterized by darker, red-brown fur. Mature males, like Pepe, develop impressive flanges (cheek pads) that give them a powerful and commanding appearance.
Pepe’s presence is more than just a rare sighting, it’s a powerful reminder that humans and wildlife now share increasingly shrinking spaces. Behind our admiration for such magnificent creatures lies a deep responsibility: to protect their forests, minimize disturbance, and ensure that future generations can still witness wild orangutans where they truly belong in the forest, not behind bars.
What made this moment even more special was that it was captured by two remarkable wildlife photographers @mikapicture and Gingin during their visit to Prevab, where they set out to witness the raw, untamed life of orangutans in their natural habitat.
This breathtaking photograph is a testament to their dedication, sharp observation, and passion for the wild. With patience, respect, and a deep love for nature, they found themselves in the right place at the right time to witness—and immortalize—Pepe in all his glory.
Let’s continue to support conservation and cherish wildlife. Because a healthy planet is the greatest legacy we can leave behind