Say hello to your new favourite duo–and this month’s APE Achievers–Maximus and Agam!
Agam and Maximus are two young orangutans with heartbreaking beginnings. Both arrived at the rescue centre as tiny orphans, deeply scarred by the trauma of losing their mothers.
These two youngsters have recently been buddied up at our SRA rescue centre in Sumatra. And thanks to your incredible support, their new friendship is already working wonders! Almost instantly, the two little orangutans formed a special bond. They now spend their days side by side, playing, resting, and exploring the forest together at Jungle School.
Thank you for supporting Maximus and Agam to help each other heal and grow at Baby Jungle School.
When you helped rescue little Agam earlier this year, he was in a devastating condition. Our team found him weak, terrified, and completely covered in sticky latex sap. He had lost his mum and his forest home. Yet at Jungle School, Agam has been thriving. Because of amazing people like you by his side, Agam has been learning to forage, swing with confidence through the canopy, and play like a wild orangutan should.
With you as his champion, Agam is excelling in Jungle School. He loves to snack, and is learning to confidently climb through the trees!
Sweet Maximus’s story is equally tragic. Rescued late last year from illegal captivity, he had been cruelly taken from his mother at just two years old. He’s found it hard to trust his carers, often keeping to himself and showing little interest in Jungle School.
But then something amazing happened. We introduced Maximus to Agam–and the transformation has been incredible. Maximus is now braver and more playful, finding comfort in his new best friend.
Maximus is finding his feet at Jungle School, building connections and growing his confidence.
All because you continue to believe in him, and his journey toward forest freedom.
Agam is the more confident of the pair. He happily forages, explores, and shows off his independence without worrying too much about his keepers. Maximus, on the other hand, leans on Agam for courage. With Agam by his side, Maximus feels safe enough to try new things–even being approached by his caregivers. He follows Agam everywhere, eager to join in and learn. When separated from his friend, Maximus quickly shows his distress, proving just how important their friendship has become.
Thanks to this special bond, and your dedication to their recovery, Maximus is showing incredible signs of becoming the wild, confident orangutan he was meant to be.
Twice a day, they spend two hours in the forest, climbing, foraging, and resting under the canopy–just as wild orangutans do. Together, they’re learning, growing, and taking small but steady steps toward recovery. And a wild return to the forest!
Maximus (left) and Agam (right) are becoming the best of friends.
Together, they are blossoming in Jungle School. And it’s all thanks to your amazing generosity!
This story is a beautiful reminder of the power of companionship and the resilience of these incredible animals. With each passing day, Agam and Maximus show us that even the deepest wounds can begin to heal. With patience, care, and a true friend by your side. They have each other, and they have you. Their journey is just beginning, but with you by their side, their future looks so much wilder.
Thank you for being the champion these orphans need.
Program: Sumatran Rescue Alliance (SRA)
Location: North Sumatra, Indonesia
Run by: SRA is a collaboration with our COP and OIC partners, and the Ministry of Forestry 🌳